An equation is a balance
Whatever operation you perform on one side must also be performed on the other.
CSEC Math LabLearn · practise · master
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All sections
15 min
Section 6Algebra
Use symbols to expose the structure
Use algebra as a precise language for relationships and problem solving.
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Learn the idea
Three things to notice
Like terms share the same variable part
3x and -5x combine. 3x and 3x² do not because their powers differ.
Factorising reverses expansion
To factor x² + 5x + 6, find two numbers whose product is 6 and sum is 5.
Do not memorise the words alone. The worked example shows how to choose and apply the idea.
Syllabus coverage
ExpressionsSubstitutionIndicesLinear equationsSimultaneous equationsQuadratics and variation