AlgebraGCSE Higher

Factorising expressions using a repeated bracket

Treat a repeated bracket as one common factor, then simplify what remains.

  • Find an identical bracket multiplying every term.
  • Take that whole bracket outside, just as you would take out a common letter.
  • Put the remaining factors in a second bracket and simplify.

Example 1

Factorise fully. The whole bracket is a common factor.

Example 2

Factorise fully. The whole bracket is a common factor.

One copy of the bracket remains. Simplify inside.

Remember
A bracket on its own has an invisible multiplier of : .

Your turn

Question 1

Factorise fully.

Check answer
The whole bracket is a common factor.
Question 2

Factorise fully.

Check answer
The whole bracket is a common factor.
Question 3

Factorise fully.

Check answer
The whole bracket is a common factor.
Question 4

Factorise fully.

Check answer
The whole bracket is a common factor.One copy of the bracket remains. Simplify inside.
Question 5

Factorise fully.

Check answer
The whole bracket is a common factor.One copy of the bracket remains. Simplify inside.
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