ā 3(x + 4) = 3x + 4
ā 3(x + 4) = 3x + 12 (multiply BOTH terms)
ā -2(x - 3) = -2x - 6
ā -2(x - 3) = -2x + 6 (neg Ć neg = pos)
ā 5(x + 2) = 5x + 2
ā 5(x + 2) = 5x + 10 (don't forget the second term!)
Practice Questions
Q1 Expand: 2(x + 4) [1 mark]
[1] 2 Ć x + 2 Ć 4 = 2x + 8
Q2 Expand: 5(3x - 7) [2 marks]
[1] 5 Ć 3x = 15x
[1] 5 Ć (-7) = -35
Answer: 15x - 35
Q3 Expand: -4(x - 3) [2 marks]
[1] -4 Ć x = -4x
[1] -4 Ć (-3) = +12
Answer: -4x + 12
Q4 Expand: 3x(2x + 5) [2 marks]
[1] 3x Ć 2x = 6xĀ²
[1] 3x Ć 5 = 15x
Answer: 6xĀ² + 15x
This study notes covers Common Mistakes within Expanding Brackets for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Expanding Brackets in Algebra for GCSE Mathematics with 14 exam-style questions and 3 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 7 of 13 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Expanding Brackets
Which expression is equivalent to 3(x + 2)?
Expand -2(3x - 5)
Quick recall flashcards
Sign Rules
Positive Ć Positive = Positive | Negative Ć Negative = Positive | Different signs = Negative
Expansion Rule
a(b + c) = ab + ac - multiply EVERY term inside by the term outside