📐 GCSE Algebra
Master every algebra topic with free exam-style questions, step-by-step worked solutions, and practice quizzes. From basic expressions to quadratics and beyond.
What is GCSE Algebra?
Algebra is the branch of mathematics that uses letters and symbols to represent numbers and quantities. It's one of the most important and heavily tested areas of GCSE Maths, appearing in both Foundation and Higher tier papers.
Key skills you'll develop include:
- Simplifying expressions – combining like terms and working with indices
- Expanding and factorising – manipulating brackets and expressions
- Solving equations – from simple linear to quadratic equations
- Working with sequences – finding nth terms and patterns
- Understanding graphs – plotting and interpreting linear and quadratic graphs
📚 Algebra Topics
🔓 Expanding Brackets
Learn to expand single brackets, double brackets (FOIL), and simplify expressions.
🔒 Factorising
Master factorising single brackets, quadratics, and difference of two squares.
🔄 Solving Equations
Solve linear equations, equations with brackets, and unknowns on both sides.
⚖️ Simultaneous Equations
Learn elimination and substitution methods for solving pairs of equations.
📈 Quadratic Equations
Solve quadratics by factorising, using the formula, and completing the square.
🔢 Sequences
Find nth terms of linear and quadratic sequences. Recognise special sequences.
↔️ Inequalities
Solve and represent inequalities on number lines and graphs.
🔧 Rearranging Formulae
Change the subject of a formula, including with powers and roots.
💡 Algebra Tips for GCSE Success
1. Show your working: Algebra questions award method marks. Even if your final answer is wrong, clear working can earn you marks.
2. Check by substituting: After solving an equation, substitute your answer back in to verify it works.
3. Practice expanding before factorising: Understanding expanding helps you check your factorising is correct.
4. Learn the quadratic formula: It's not on the formula sheet, so memorise it: x = (-b ± √(b²-4ac)) / 2a