How do you solve an equation with brackets?

If you are given an equation with brackets, one way to solve it is to multiply out the brackets. Follow the example below:

Solve the equation: 2(a + 5) = 16

1. Multiply out the brackets and remember that everything inside the brackets will get multiplied by 2.

× a + 2 × 5 = 16

You get: 2a + 10 = 16

2. Next, do the inverse of + 10, so subtract 10 from both sides.

2a + 10 - 10 = 16 - 10

So 2a = 6

3. To find out what a is you need to do the inverse of multiplying by 2 which is dividing by 2.

So a = 3

Answered by Emma G. Maths tutor

39585 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Anna and James share out £40 in the ratio 5:3 in that order. How much do they each get?


Expand the following equations


Mark buys a computer. A VAT of 10% is added to the price of the computer. He pays £246. What was the original price of the computer before VAT was added?


Explain the general formula for a sraight line?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences