Visual aids can make it much easier to understand and simplify algebraic expressions. Here are a few helpful ways they can do this:

1. Diagrams: You can use bar models or area models to show expressions visually. For example, if you have the expression $2a + 3b$, you can draw two bars for $a$ and three bars for $b$. This helps you see the total more clearly.

2. Flowcharts: Making flowcharts can help guide students step-by-step through the simplification process. For instance, a flowchart might show how to group similar terms or use the distributive property.

3. Color Coding: Using different colors can make it easier to tell apart similar terms and operators. For example, if you color all $a$ terms blue and all $b$ terms red, students can quickly see which terms can be combined.

These tools can turn tricky ideas into simpler ones, making it easier to understand and remember.