This section is filled with worksheets that work with exponents either basic or operational exponents.

An exponent is often referred to as a number that is raised to a certain power. You may also hear them referred to as indices that term creeped in during the late seventeenth century. The number of the exponent indicates how many times the base is multiplied by itself. For example, 63 just indicates that we multiply 6 by itself 3 times or 6 x 6 x 6. In this way exponents are really a shorthand form of math. You will find this math at all construction sites. When a building or home is built the number of square feet determines the value of everything. When an exponent is a negative number the result is always a fraction. This is because a fractional exponent means that the base is on the wrong side of the fraction line (the denominator). The fraction is made up of a numerator equal to one. To determine the denominator, we make the negative exponent positive.

Below you will find eleven topics that include exponents in some way shape and form. Each topic has an independent lesson that will teach you the skill and a guided lesson that will baby step you into to performing these calculations all on your own. There are also plenty of practice worksheets and quizzes to help you gauge where you stand with each topic. The worksheet topics below are arranged alphabetically because this skill falls into the dead middle of most spiral curriculums.

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Exponent Worksheet Categories

Click any of the images or words below to print out the exponent sheets.

Adding and Subtracting Exponents

In order to do this not only do the bases need to be the same, but also the powers.

Combining Like Terms

This fundamental concept of algebra often includes terms with powers that need to be combined. While this is part of our algebra section, we thought it important to highlight it here too.

Comparing Exponents

We really are comparing their end values, but as you get better at these you will use less steps to complete them.

Converting Exponents to Numbers

We show you how to do the short and long version of this.

Evaluating Positive and Negative Exponents

The real skill here is learning how to ditch that negative power that takes on a fractional form.

Evaluating Expressions with Fractional Exponents

We learn when it is appropriate to express powers and roots in this section.

Exponential Word Problems

I get many different blank stares from students when they first come across this material. Take extra time to make sure they have a solid understanding.

Laws of Exponents

There are three fundamental truths that students need to understand and everything else will follow.

Laws of Rational Exponents

These represent both the integer power and the nth root.

Multiplying and Dividing Exponents

As long as they have the same common base, this is a breeze.

Multiplying and Dividing Monomials

You will need to combine like terms as you process these problems.

Nature of Roots

We show you how to completely evaluate down to the final answer.

Rational Fractional Exponents

These can be a bit tricky. Take your time and write out each step.

Writing Exponents

How do you write them when you are all on your own?