Grade 10 · Theory
Algebraic fractions
Algebraic expressions · about 3 min
Visual overview: Algebraic fractions1 MIN READ
2 study sections · pause after each one and recall the key ideaAlgebraic fractions follow the same rules as numeric fractions — but you must factorise before you simplify.
Key points- Simplify by factorising the numerator and denominator, then cancelling common FACTORS (never terms).
- Multiplying: factorise, cancel, then multiply straight across.
- Dividing: multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction.
- Adding/subtracting: find the lowest common denominator (LCD) after factorising.
- LCD — the smallest expression every denominator divides into.
- Restriction — a value that makes a denominator zero and is therefore not allowed.
EXAM TIP
state restrictions (x ≠ …) whenever a variable sits in a denominator — they carry marks.