[RESOLVED] How do I return groups of numbers or characters from a string?

[DinosaurusRex]

I'm writing a graphing calculator right now, and I need to be able to read an equation (i.e. [y1= 6x/3x^2] or [y2= (2x + 4)(3 - 2x^2)]) and return it as a very simplified equivalent function (i.e. [y1= 2x^-1] or [y2= -4x^3 - 8x^2 + 6x + 12]). I just need to know how to go about identifying the groups of numbers/operators/variables, and it should be much easier from there.

Also, if the coefficient, variables, and exponents could be returned as separate variables, this would be a ton easier. Thanks!

EDIT: I'm writing this as a callable function like this, where 'eqtn' is only the right side of an equation, like this: (the bold) y1= 3x + 2

    Private Function getEquation(ByRef eqtn As String)
        
    End Function

Thank you!