How do you expand brackets?

The easiest method to expand brackets would be to remember FOIL!
F - First
O - Outside
I - Inside
L - Last

Okay, so lets say you want to expand (3x+1)(2x+3), we'll fist multiply the first term of each bracket, 3x2x, which gives us 6x2. Next the outside term of each, 3x3, which makes 9x. Then the inside terms which are 12x, making just 2x. Finally the last terms, 31 which is just 3.
Adding these four together we get:
6x2+9x+2x+3
We can simplify the two x terms to leave us with a final answer of:
6x2+11x+3
 

CG
Answered by Connor G. Maths tutor

5637 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Simplify √48


Write (9^8)/((9^5)^2) in its simplest form


P is directly proportional to Q. When Q = 6, P = 15. Work out the value of P when Q = 3.5


The point P has coordinates (3, 4) The point Q has coordinates (a, b) A line perpendicular to PQ is given by the equation 3x + 2y = 7 Find an expression for b in terms of a.


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