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Expand brackets

Start with a grouped expression

3(x + 2)
3x23(x + 2)3 × x + 3 × 23x + 6

The number outside the parentheses multiplies the whole group inside.

Detailed notes

Worked Example

Expand 3(x + 2) by multiplying the outside number into every term inside the bracket.

Step 1: Identify the outside factor

The 3 outside the bracket multiplies the whole group.

3(x + 2)

Step 2: Multiply the first term

Multiply 3 by x. The variable x is italic, while the multiplication sign is upright.

3×x=3x

Step 3: Multiply the second term

The 3 must also multiply the 2 inside the bracket.

3×2=6

Step 4: Combine the products

Put both multiplied parts back together with the same plus sign.

3(x + 2)=3x + 6