AI generatedAlgebraGCSE Higher / IGCSE Extended

Simplifying algebraic fractions by factorising

Factorise the entire numerator and denominator before cancelling.

  • Factorise the entire numerator and denominator before cancelling.
  • Cancel a common factor, not an individual term inside a sum.
  • State the values excluded by the original denominator. Simplification does not make them valid.

Example 1

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Find two numbers with the required sum and product.Cancel the common factor .

Example 2

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Find two numbers with the required sum and product.Cancel the common factor .

Remember
Use the worked steps to check your method, not just the final answer.

Your turn

Question 1

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
Find two numbers with the required sum and product.Cancel the common factor .

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 2

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
Find two numbers with the required sum and product.Cancel the common factor .

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 3

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
Find two numbers with the required sum and product.Cancel the common factor .

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 4

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
Find two numbers with the required sum and product.Cancel the common factor .

Restrictions from the original expression: .

Question 5

Simplify. State any excluded values.

Check answer
Find two numbers with the required sum and product.Cancel the common factor .

Restrictions from the original expression: .

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