How do you multiply out brackets

This is simple as long as you remember FOIL:
First

Outside

Inside

Last

So, for example, let's multiply out (2x+1)(4x-3)

Multiply the first number from each bracket together: 2x times 4x = 8x2

Then the outside from each bracket: 2x times -3 = -6x

Then inside: 1 times 4x = 4x

And outside: 1 times -3 = -3

Then add all these together: 8x2 -6x +4x-3

Final answer: 8x2 -2x -3

HM
Answered by Harry M. Maths tutor

14026 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do you solve a simultaneous equation?


Factorise this quadratic = 8x^2 + 2x -3


Please explain the difference between compound and simple interest


There are n sweets in a bag, 6 of which are orange, the rest are yellow. Hannah takes a random sweet from the bag and eats it, and then does so again. The probability that Hannah eats two orange sweets is 1/3. Show that n^2-n-90=0.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning