3 times n. When a number sits next to a letter, the multiplication sign is left out, so 3n with n = 4 is 12.

Does my child need order of operations first?

It helps a lot. After substituting, each problem is solved with the usual order of operations, so brush up there if expressions like 3 × 4 + 2 still cause trouble.

Do the worksheets only ask students to evaluate expressions?

No. Students also define variables and write expressions for quantities in real situations, as required by standard 6.EE.B.6.

6th grade evaluating expressions

6th grade evaluating expressions worksheets

Evaluating expressions means substituting a number for a variable and simplifying, the skill every later algebra course assumes. Sixth graders also define variables for quantities in context and write expressions that describe how those quantities are related.

Free printable PDF worksheet, aligned to Common Core 6.EE.A.2, 6.EE.B.6.

Each print is a different sheet with its own answer key. You don't need to sign up.

The kind of problems you'll get

Evaluate using the given variable value, or answer the expression question.

x = 4 x − 2
Answer: 2
x = 7 x + 7 − 6
Answer: 8
x = 3 x + 9 − 4
Answer: 8

Every print pulls a fresh set of problems at this level, so a make-up test or a second sibling never gets the same sheet.

What's on a 6th grade sheet

Evaluating expressions. Evaluate using the given variable value, or answer the expression question. 10 problems per page.
Writing algebraic expressions. Complete each problem. Show your reasoning where asked. 6 problems per page.

Every version prints on US Letter or A4, with its answer key after the problems.

How to teach this

Have your child rewrite each expression with the number in place of the letter before computing anything: 3n + 2 with n = 4 becomes 3 × 4 + 2 on paper. That one written step prevents the classic "34" mistake. After that it's just order of operations, which they already know. When writing an expression from a situation, define the variable with its unit before translating the relationship into symbols.

Watch for: Kids write 3n with n = 4 as the number 34. 3n means 3 × n, so substitute and multiply: 3 × 4 = 12. Substituting turns into swapping every number. Only the letter changes, and the rest of the expression stays exactly as written.

Common questions about 6th grade evaluating expressions

What does 3n mean?: 3 times n. When a number sits next to a letter, the multiplication sign is left out, so 3n with n = 4 is 12.
Does my child need order of operations first?: It helps a lot. After substituting, each problem is solved with the usual order of operations, so brush up there if expressions like 3 × 4 + 2 still cause trouble.
Do the worksheets only ask students to evaluate expressions?: No. Students also define variables and write expressions for quantities in real situations, as required by standard 6.EE.B.6.

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Aligned to Common Core 6.EE.A.2, 6.EE.B.6. Reviewed by the One more sheet team. Content version 240, updated September 2026.

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