BASIC ALGEBRA

Algebra is a branch of math which involves the use of letters and symbols to represent numbers. When using

algebra, remember that the letters are in fact numbers, and all operations that can be done with numbers can also be

done with letters. These include operations such as addition, multiplication and division.

In algebra, we work with both negative and positive numbers. Therefore, the following rules for multiplication and

division of positive and negative numbers must be adhered to.

BASIC FACTORISATION

Factorization

Here, we find the highest common factor (H.C.F) of the terms included in the expression.  The H.C.F is found for

both the numbers and letters involved. To find the H.C.F of a set of algebraic terms we first identify the variable(s)

which is common to all terms, and then we take the lowest power of that variable (letter).

For example, if given  , the H.C.F is determined as follows:

The letters that are common to all three terms are: a, b and c

The lowest power of a: 

The lowest power of b: 

The lowest power of c: 

Now we multiply all three factors: 

Factorizing an expression

In this method we find the H.C.F of the terms in the expressions. Each term of the expression is divided by the

H.C.F. The results (quotients) are placed in a bracket with the H.C.F placed directly in front of the bracket.