What is the first step to simplify the expression 8a - 4a/2a - 16a x 8a + a?

To simplify the expression 8a - 4a/2a - 16a x 8a + a, it makes sense to first simplify each term individually. This approach helps clarify the operations involved and ensures clarity before combining or manipulating the terms further.

By simplifying each term, you can identify opportunities to reduce the complexity. For example, starting with the term -4a/2a allows you to immediately simplify that to -2. This step is crucial in laying the groundwork for further operations.

Once all terms are simplified, you can then proceed to combine like terms or factor out common elements if necessary. This orderly progression keeps the process manageable, reducing errors that may arise from trying to tackle combinations or factorizations too early on.

Thus, simplifying each term individually provides a clear pathway to work through the entire expression effectively.