NotesMath · P6Basic Algebra
Basic Algebra & Patterns Quick Notes
Primary-level unknowns, expressions and simple equations.
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Unknown as a unit
Treat the letter as one bar.
1
Write the Expression
3n means 3 × n. n + 5 means 'a number plus 5'.
2
Substitute
If n = 4, then 3n + 2 = 3 × 4 + 2 = 14.
3
Simplify
Combine like terms: 3n + 2n = 5n. 4n − n = 3n.
Common Mistakes
- Adding unlike terms (2n + 3 ≠ 5n)
- Forgetting the coefficient
- Confusing 2n with n²
Teaching Team Tip
Substitute a small number like n = 2 to check your simplification.
Worked Example
Try it, then check the steps
Question
Simplify 4n + 3 + 2n − 1.
Steps
- 1Combine n terms: 4n + 2n = 6n
- 2Combine numbers: 3 − 1 = 2
- 3Answer: 6n + 2
What to do next
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