Loading…
Reference: Pearson Edexcel International A Level Pure Mathematics 3 Student Book. This chapter is about making algebraic expressions easier to handle before you solve anything.
Main skills from this lesson
Algebraic methods are the cleaning tools of Pure Mathematics 3. Before solving a problem, try to make the expression simpler.
(x^2 - 9)/(x - 3) = ((x - 3)(x + 3))/(x - 3) = x + 3, x!= 3
You may cancel factors, not terms. In (x + 2)/(x + 5), nothing cancels.
Use the same fraction rules you already know, but with algebra.
Write each line clearly. Most mistakes in this chapter come from skipping one algebra line.
An improper algebraic fraction has a numerator with degree greater than or equal to the denominator. Use algebraic division to rewrite it.
Example pattern:
(x^2 + 3x + 5)/(x + 1) = x + 2 + 3/(x + 1)
Study tip: after division, multiply your answer by the divisor to check you recover the numerator.
Do short, accurate practice rather than long rushed practice.
Continue with quizzes, flashcards, or games when you are ready.