AlgebraKey Facts

The Four Inequality Symbols

Part of Linear Inequalities · GCSE GCSE Mathematics revision

This key facts covers The Four Inequality Symbols within Linear Inequalities for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Linear Inequalities in Algebra for GCSE Mathematics with 14 exam-style questions and 11 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 2 of 8 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 2 of 8

Practice

14 questions

Recall

11 flashcards

The Four Inequality Symbols

Symbol	Meaning	Circle Type	Example
<	Less than	Open ○	x < 5 means x can be 4.9, 4, 0, -10...
≤	Less than or equal to	Closed ●	x ≤ 5 means x can be 5, 4, 0, -10...
>	Greater than	Open ○	x > 5 means x can be 5.1, 6, 100...
≥	Greater than or equal to	Closed ●	x ≥ 5 means x can be 5, 6, 100...

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Linear Inequalities. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Not Just Equals!Solving Inequalities (Like Equations!)Worked Example 1: Simple Inequality Worked Example 2: Negative Coefficient (FLIP!)

Practice Questions for Linear Inequalities

Which of the following correctly describes how to represent x > 3 on a number line?

A. A closed (filled) circle at 3, with an arrow pointing to the right
B. An open (empty) circle at 3, with an arrow pointing to the right
C. An open (empty) circle at 3, with an arrow pointing to the left
D. A closed (filled) circle at 3, with an arrow pointing to the left

1 markfoundation

When solving an inequality, the direction of the inequality sign must reverse if you multiply or divide both sides by a negative number. Explain why this rule is necessary. You may use an example to support your explanation.

2 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

Open vs Closed Circle on a number line

Open circle (hollow) for < and > — endpoint NOT included. Closed circle (filled) for ≤ and ≥ — endpoint IS included.

The Flip Rule for inequalities

When you multiply or divide BOTH sides by a NEGATIVE number, you MUST reverse (flip) the inequality sign. Example: -2x > 6 becomes x < -3

14 questions on Linear Inequalities — practise free

Instant marking, adaptive difficulty, and 11 spaced repetition flashcards. Free until your GCSEs.

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Not Just Equals!

Solving Inequalities (Like Equations!)