How do I expand a factorised expression?

Take example (x+3)(x-4) We use FOIL - first, outer, inner, last  We multiply each part by the other part. First -> x times x = x2 . Outer -> x times -4 = -4x (remember the minus infront of the 4), Inner -> 3 times x  = 3x. Last - -4 times 3 = -12 (again, remember minus infront of the 4) We then add the four answers from FOIL together: x2-4x+3x-12 From here we can simplify: x2-x-12

SK
Answered by Sarah K. Maths tutor

3763 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Find the value of 5x - 3y when x = -2 and y = -4


There are n sweets in a bag. Six of the sweets are orange, the rest are yellow. One sweet is removed from the bag without replacement, then another is removed without replacement. Show that n²-n-90=0


f(x) = 4x - m, g(x) = mx + 11, fg(x) = 8x + n. m and n are constants. Find the value of n.


Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations: 2y - x = 3, y + 4x = 4


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