Algebra involves solving for unknown variables using equations and mathematical identities. The key is mastering standard formulas like (a+b)² and identifying patterns to simplify complex polynomials.
Key Formulas
Square of Sum
(a + b)² = a² + b² + 2ab
Useful for expansion.
Difference of Squares
a² - b² = (a - b)(a + b)
Most frequently used for factorization.
Sum/Difference of Cubes
a³ + b³ = (a + b)(a² - ab + b²)
a³ - b³ = (a - b)(a² + ab + b²)