F.O.I.L. = First, Outside, Inside, Last
| Step | Meaning | Example: (x + 3)(x + 2) |
|---|---|---|
| First | First term × First term | x × x = x² |
| Outside | First term × Last term | x × 2 = 2x |
| Inside | Last term × First term | 3 × x = 3x |
| Last | Last term × Last term | 3 × 2 = 6 |
Result: x² + 2x + 3x + 6 = x² + 5x + 6
This key facts covers The FOIL Method 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 9 of 13 in this topic. Use this key facts 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 × Positive = Positive | Negative × Negative = Positive | Different signs = Negative
Expansion Rule
a(b + c) = ab + ac - multiply EVERY term inside by the term outside