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Factorising is the reverse of expanding brackets and is essential for solving quadratics, simplifying expressions, and working with algebraic fractions. Students progress from single-bracket factorisation to double brackets and the difference of two squares.
Our tutors see these errors again and again. Knowing them in advance gives you a head start.
Not taking out the highest common factor (e.g., writing 2(2x + 4) instead of 4(x + 2))
Getting signs wrong inside the brackets when factorising quadratics
Forgetting to check by expanding the brackets back out
This topic is tested by the following exam boards. Our tutors are specialists in each one.
Expanding brackets (distribution) is a fundamental algebraic skill used across many topics. Students multiply each term inside the bracket by the term outside, progressing to double-bracket expansion and expressions raised to powers.
AlgebraQuadratic equations appear throughout the higher tier GCSE paper and are a significant step up from linear equations. Students need to factorise, complete the square, and use the quadratic formula to find solutions.
AlgebraAlgebraic fractions combine fraction skills with algebraic manipulation and are tested at higher tier. Students must simplify, add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions that contain variables, often needing to factorise first.
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Take our free diagnostic quiz to find out exactly where you stand, then get matched with a tutor who specialises in algebra.