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In algebra, simplifying expressions often involves combining like terms. Like terms are terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. For example, in the expression given, 14y and 16y are like terms because they both have the variable 'y'. Similarly, -6z and 2z are like terms as they both have the variable 'z'.
Combining like terms makes the expression simpler and more manageable. You add or subtract the coefficients of these terms. For instance, for the terms 14y and 16y, you add the coefficients 14 and 16 to get 30, thus giving you 30y. Similarly, for -6z and 2z, the coefficients -6 and 2 are combined to get -4, giving you -4z. This process is essential in simplifying expressions.

Coefficients are the numerical part of terms that contain variables. In the term 14y, 14 is the coefficient. In -6z, -6 is the coefficient. Understanding coefficients is crucial when simplifying expressions because it is the coefficients that you combine, not the variables.
When combining like terms, focus on the coefficients. Add or subtract them as directed by the problem. Positive coefficients represent addition, while negative coefficients represent subtraction. For example, in the term 14y + 16y, you would add 14 and 16 to get 30. For -6z and 2z, you subtract because of the negative sign, resulting in -4.
This understanding helps in breaking down complex problems into simpler steps, making it easier to handle algebraic expressions.

In algebra, variables are symbols that represent unknown values and are often denoted by letters such as x, y, or z. In the given expression, 'y' and 'z' are the variables. They are placeholders for numbers that can change, hence the name variables.
Different variables mean different terms, and you cannot combine terms with different variables. For example, you cannot combine 14y and -6z directly because they have different variables. Each variable must be handled separately.
Understanding variables is key to simplifying expressions. Always identify like terms based on their variables first, then combine the coefficients of those like terms. This method ensures a clear and simplified final expression, as seen in the exercise where combining like terms with y and z led to the simplified expression 30y - 4z.