Algebra Practice Test

The first step in simplifying the expression \(x^2 - 4y + 3\) while assuming \(y = 2\) is to substitute the value of \(y\) into the expression. By replacing \(y\) with \(2\), the expression becomes \(x^2 - 4(2) + 3\), which simplifies the process of evaluating or simplifying further. This step is crucial because it reduces the number of variables, allowing you to focus on simplifying the resulting expression in terms of \(x\) only. Understanding when to perform substitutions is critical in algebra, as it influences the simplification of expressions and equations. After substitution, you could then proceed to simplify or further analyze the expression as needed.