How do you expand (2x-1)(3x+4) using the FOIL method?

First, we must understand what the FOIL method is.

FOIL is an ancronym that we use to help us remember the steps when expanding brackets.

F - first 

O - outer

I - inner 

L- last 

Step 1: Multiply the FIRST terms in each bracket giving:

2x * 3x = 6x2

Step 2: Multiply the OUTER terms in each bracket giving:

2x * 4 = 8x

Step 3: Multiply the INNER terms in each bracket giving:

-1 * 3x = -3x

Step 4: Multiply the LAST terms in each bracket giving:

-1 * 4 = -4 

Step 5: Add all the terms together to give the expanded form of the equation giving:

6x + 8x + (-3x) + (-4) = 6x2 + 8x - 3x - 4

Giving: 

6x + 5x - 4    as your final answer ! 

JL
Answered by James L. Maths tutor

6474 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is 17% of 84?


Solve the simultaneous equations: 3x+2y=11, 2x-5y=1.


How do I solve this pair of simultaneous equations: 3x+y=7 and 3x-y=5?


Solve simultaneous equations: 3x + y = 12 and 5x + 5y = 30


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning