Monomial binomial or trinomial? Take the quiz to classify polynomials
Quick, free polynomial types quiz. Instant results.
This quiz helps you tell whether each expression is a monomial, binomial, or trinomial and build speed classifying polynomials. After you finish, try a quick polynomial quiz, sharpen factoring with our polynomials and factoring quiz, or review basics in a combine like terms quiz.
Study Outcomes
- Identify Monomial Expressions - Recognize and categorize single-term expressions as monomials to build a foundation in polynomial classification. 
- Distinguish Binomial Expressions - Differentiate two-term algebraic expressions from other polynomials by identifying binomial structures accurately. 
- Classify Trinomial Expressions - Analyze three-term algebraic expressions and correctly classify them as trinomials. 
- Differentiate Polynomials by Term Count - Apply clear criteria based on the number of terms to classify monomials, binomials, and trinomials confidently. 
- Analyze Polynomial Structures - Evaluate mixed expressions and determine whether they are monomial, binomial, or trinomial polynomials. 
- Self-Assess Polynomial Classification Skills - Use quiz feedback to gauge mastery of polynomial terminology and identify areas for further practice. 
Cheat Sheet
- Term Count Classification - Remember that a monomial has one term, a binomial has two terms, and a trinomial has three terms. Use the mnemonic "mono-1, bi-2, tri-3" to quickly distinguish monomial, binomial and trinomial expressions such as 5x², x+7, and 3x²−2x+1. (Source: Khan Academy) 
- Degree-Based Naming - Polynomials are also classified by degree: a constant polynomial (degree 0), linear (degree 1), quadratic (degree 2), cubic (degree 3), and so on. For instance, 4 is constant, 2x−5 is linear, and x²+3x+2 is a quadratic trinomial. (Source: MIT OpenCourseWare) 
- Standard Form and Ordering - Always write polynomials in descending exponent order for consistency: e.g., 2x³−x+4 instead of −x+4+2x³. This standard form makes it easier to spot polynomials, monomials, binomials or trinomials at a glance. (Source: University of Illinois) 
- Combining Like Terms - When adding or subtracting expressions, combine like terms (same variable and exponent) to classify the result correctly. For example, (3x+2)+(5x−4) becomes 8x−2, a binomial, not two separate monomials. (Source: Purplemath) 
- Recognizing Special Binomial Forms - Familiarize yourself with notable binomial expansions like (a+b)² = a² + 2ab + b² and the difference of squares a²−b² = (a−b)(a+b). Spotting these patterns helps you identify binomials and trinomials instantly. (Source: Coursera)