Firstly put the equation into the the form (x+a)(x+b) this will make things easier later on.

Therefore, an equation such as (x+1)² would become (x+1)(x+1)

Next expand the brackets. To do this simply multiply the first number in the first bracket, by the first number in the second bracket. Then multiply the second number in the first bracket by the second number in the second bracket. Then multiply together the second number in the first bracket by the first number in the second bracket. Finally multiply the first number in the first bracket with the second number in the second bracket.

This is much easier to see through working...

(x+1)(x+1)

1. xx = x²

2. 11 = 1

3. x1 = x

4. x1 = x

The last stage is to add all of this working together. This gives x²+x+x+1 which can be simplified to x²+2x+1.

Or...

(x+a)(x+b)

1. xx = x²

2. ab = ab

3. ax = ax

4. bx = bx

= x²+ax+bx+ab. In this example a and b would both be integers.

And that's how to expand a factorised number.

Solve 9x +1> 2x +3

Related Maths GCSE answers

Fully factorise 2a^2b+6ab^2

Calculate the value of both x and y using the following 2 equations: 3x - 2y = 12 (1) and x - y = 3 (2)

An item costs £65 but requires an additional 20% VAT to be added. How much change will you get from £100

How do I expand a factorised equation?