Identify the index of the radical
Factor the number or expression inside the radical
Look for perfect powers matching the index
Rewrite the radical as a product of radicals
Simplify by taking out perfect powers
Combine like radicals when possible
For multiplication, multiply the numbers inside the radicals
For division, divide the numbers inside the radicals
Rationalize the denominator if needed
Use exponent rules to convert between radicals and fractional exponents
Check for restrictions on variables when radicals are in denominators or even roots
Verify the final result by substituting back if needed