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

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Factorise (x+3)(x-8)


3x + 12 = 24, solve for x.


f(x) = (2x+3)/(x-4). Work out f^-1 (x)


What is the probability that the next baby born in England will be a boy?