How Do You Multiply A Monomial By A Polynomial?
Multiplying monomials by polynomials in algebra can be tricky, especially when it comes to keeping negative and positive signs straight. Here are some guidelines to getting it right. The key is to do signs, then numbers, then variables. Write the monomial to the left and the polynomial in parenthesis to the right. Think about each sign before you think about multiplying the numbers. If the monomial is positive and the first term (chunk) of the polynomial is negative think “positive X negative = positive” and write the correct sign down in your answer. Write a negative sign for a negative or a plus sign for a positive (expect for the very first chunk of your answer where no sign is needed if it is positive). Once you have determined the first sign, multiply the number in the monomial and the number in the first term (chunk) of the polynomial. Write down the answer after the sign. The third step is to use your exponent (power) rule to multiply any variables such as “X” “Y” etc. If you ha
