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Algebra 1

Dec 13, 2025

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4 pages

Master Quadratics: Factorisation and Solutions - GCSE/IGCSE Guide

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Neil Trivedi - MyEdSpace @neildoesmaths

Quadratic expressions might look intimidating at first, but they're actually quite manageable once you know the tricks. Think... Show more

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Getting Started with Factorising

Factorising quadratics means rewriting expressions like x² - 3x - 28 as two brackets multiplied together. It's like finding the "ingredients" that make up the original expression.

The key is finding two numbers that multiply to give you the constant term (the number without x). For x² - 3x - 28, you need pairs that multiply to make 28 (1,28), (2,14), or (4,7).

Next, check which pair adds or subtracts to give you the middle coefficient. Since 4 - 7 = -3, you get x+4x + 4x7x - 7. Always double-check by expanding your answer!

Quick Tip Start by listing all factor pairs of the constant term - this saves time and prevents mistakes.

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Difference of Two Squares (DOTS)

When you spot something like x² - 64, you're looking at a difference of two squares - a special pattern that's much easier to factorise than regular quadratics.

Both terms must be perfect squares x2and82=64x² and 8² = 64 with a minus sign between them. The answer always follows the pattern x+8x + 8x8x - 8.

This works because when you expand these brackets, the middle terms +8xand8x+8x and -8x cancel each other out perfectly. No need for trial and error - just take the square root of each term and use opposite signs.

Remember DOTS always gives you a+ba + baba - b where a² and b² are your original terms.

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Harder Quadratics and Simplifying Fractions

When the coefficient of x² isn't 1 likein2x2+3x+1like in 2x² + 3x + 1, factorising becomes trickier but follows the same logic. Start with factors of the x² term here it's 2x and x.

For the constant term, find factor pairs (1 and 1 in this case), then test different arrangements in brackets. Expand the middle terms to check 2x+12x + 1x+1x + 1 gives 2x + x = 3x ✓

Factorising helps simplify algebraic fractions too. When you have quadratics in both numerator and denominator, factorise both and cancel common factors. It's like cancelling fractions but with algebra!

Pro Strategy When arranging factors, try the combination where numbers are closest together first - it often works faster.

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Solving Quadratic Equations

Once you've factorised a quadratic equation like 15x² + x - 2 = 0, solving becomes straightforward. If two brackets multiply to give zero, one of them must equal zero.

For 15x², try factor pairs like (5x, 3x) rather than (15x, x) - closer numbers usually work better. After some trial with arranging factors, you get 5x+25x + 23x13x - 1 = 0.

This means either 5x + 2 = 0 or 3x - 1 = 0, giving you x = -2/5 or x = 1/3. Always give both solutions unless the question asks for just one.

Check Yourself Substitute your answers back into the original equation - both should make it equal zero.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Most popular content: Factoring Quadratics

Most popular content in Maths

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

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App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

 

Algebra 1

41

Dec 13, 2025

4 pages

Master Quadratics: Factorisation and Solutions - GCSE/IGCSE Guide

user profile picture

Neil Trivedi - MyEdSpace

@neildoesmaths

Quadratic expressions might look intimidating at first, but they're actually quite manageable once you know the tricks. Think of factorising as reverse engineering - you're breaking down a complex expression into simpler building blocks that multiply together.

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Getting Started with Factorising

Factorising quadratics means rewriting expressions like x² - 3x - 28 as two brackets multiplied together. It's like finding the "ingredients" that make up the original expression.

The key is finding two numbers that multiply to give you the constant term (the number without x). For x² - 3x - 28, you need pairs that multiply to make 28: (1,28), (2,14), or (4,7).

Next, check which pair adds or subtracts to give you the middle coefficient. Since 4 - 7 = -3, you get x+4x + 4x7x - 7. Always double-check by expanding your answer!

Quick Tip: Start by listing all factor pairs of the constant term - this saves time and prevents mistakes.

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Difference of Two Squares (DOTS)

When you spot something like x² - 64, you're looking at a difference of two squares - a special pattern that's much easier to factorise than regular quadratics.

Both terms must be perfect squares x2and82=64x² and 8² = 64 with a minus sign between them. The answer always follows the pattern: x+8x + 8x8x - 8.

This works because when you expand these brackets, the middle terms +8xand8x+8x and -8x cancel each other out perfectly. No need for trial and error - just take the square root of each term and use opposite signs.

Remember: DOTS always gives you a+ba + baba - b where a² and b² are your original terms.

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Harder Quadratics and Simplifying Fractions

When the coefficient of x² isn't 1 likein2x2+3x+1like in 2x² + 3x + 1, factorising becomes trickier but follows the same logic. Start with factors of the x² term: here it's 2x and x.

For the constant term, find factor pairs (1 and 1 in this case), then test different arrangements in brackets. Expand the middle terms to check: 2x+12x + 1x+1x + 1 gives 2x + x = 3x ✓

Factorising helps simplify algebraic fractions too. When you have quadratics in both numerator and denominator, factorise both and cancel common factors. It's like cancelling fractions but with algebra!

Pro Strategy: When arranging factors, try the combination where numbers are closest together first - it often works faster.

myedspace.co.uk
MATHS
Study Notes
Factorising and Solving
Quadratics
GCSE
mores mes
Factorising Quadratics
The factorisation of quadratics i

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Solving Quadratic Equations

Once you've factorised a quadratic equation like 15x² + x - 2 = 0, solving becomes straightforward. If two brackets multiply to give zero, one of them must equal zero.

For 15x², try factor pairs like (5x, 3x) rather than (15x, x) - closer numbers usually work better. After some trial with arranging factors, you get 5x+25x + 23x13x - 1 = 0.

This means either 5x + 2 = 0 or 3x - 1 = 0, giving you x = -2/5 or x = 1/3. Always give both solutions unless the question asks for just one.

Check Yourself: Substitute your answers back into the original equation - both should make it equal zero.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Most popular content: Factoring Quadratics

Most popular content in Maths

Most popular content

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user