Factorising into single brackets

Learn the method, practise it, then try real exam questions.

ATeaching

Example 1

Factorise 12x + 18

  1. 1Find the highest common factor (HCF) of 12 and 18:
    6
  2. 2Write this in front of a single bracket:
    6(   )
  3. 3Work out what you times 6 by to make 12x and write this at the start of the bracket:
    6(2x  )
  4. 4Work out what you times 6 by to make 18 and write this at the end of the bracket:
    6(2x + 3)

6(2x + 3)

Example 2

Factorise 15x² − 10x

  1. 1Find the highest common factor (HCF) of 15 and 10:
    5
  2. 2Both terms contain x, so x is also a common factor and needs to be written with the 5:
    5x
  3. 3Write this in front of a single bracket:
    5x(   )
  4. 4Work out what you times 5x by to make 15x² and write this at the start of the bracket:
    5x(3x  )
  5. 5Work out what you times 5x by to make −10x and write this at the end of the bracket:
    5x(3x − 2)

5x(3x − 2)

BQuestion generator

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CWorksheet

Factorise single brackets worksheet

Factorise single brackets

Each worksheet contains questions on factorising with numerical factors, algebraic factors and both factors.
Worksheet (A) Answers (A) Full pack on TES ↓

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