Back to Maths

Algebra Revision

Equations, sequences & expressions — part of Maths on KODO.

AQA Edexcel OCR WJEC SQA

Algebra is a core area of KS3 Maths in the national curriculum. It covers essential concepts that build the foundation for GCSE study and beyond.

This topic includes subtopics such as Solving linear equations, Simplifying expressions, Sequences (nth term), Inequalities and more. Each area is tested with multiple-choice questions that include detailed explanations to deepen your understanding.

Quick Reference

Solve x + 5 = 12x = 7 (subtract 5 from both sides)
Expand 3(x + 4)3x + 12
Simplify 5x + 3x8x (add like terms)
nth term of 2, 5, 8, 113n − 1

Key Definitions

Variable
A letter (like x or y) used to represent an unknown number.
Expression
A combination of numbers, variables and operations (e.g. 3x + 5) — no equals sign.
Equation
A mathematical statement with an equals sign showing two expressions are equal (e.g. 2x + 3 = 11).
Coefficient
The number in front of a variable (in 5x, the coefficient is 5).
Linear sequence
A sequence where the difference between consecutive terms is constant (e.g. 2, 5, 8, 11).
Substitution
Replacing a variable with a given number to evaluate an expression.

What You'll Cover

Solving linear equations
Simplifying expressions
Sequences (nth term)
Inequalities
Expanding brackets
Substitution
Sequences and nth term
Expanding brackets and factorising

Test Yourself — Algebra

Try 3 quick questions. No account needed.

Quick Quiz

Loading questions…

Memory Tricks & Mnemonics

"Same Change Flip" for dividing fractions

Keep the first fraction the same, change ÷ to ×, flip the second fraction.

"BIDMAS" — Brackets, Indices, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction

Remember the correct order of operations in calculations.

"Whatever you do to one side, do to the other"

The golden rule for solving equations — keep both sides balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Variable in Maths?+
A letter (like x or y) used to represent an unknown number.
What is Expression in Maths?+
A combination of numbers, variables and operations (e.g. 3x + 5) — no equals sign.
What is Equation in Maths?+
A mathematical statement with an equals sign showing two expressions are equal (e.g. 2x + 3 = 11).
What is Coefficient in Maths?+
The number in front of a variable (in 5x, the coefficient is 5).
What does Algebra cover in KS3 Maths?+
Algebra in KS3 Maths covers Solving linear equations, Simplifying expressions, Sequences (nth term), Inequalities, Expanding brackets, Substitution, Sequences and nth term, Expanding brackets and factorising. Equations, sequences & expressions.
What is the best way to revise Algebra?+
Test yourself rather than re-reading notes. Do a short Algebra quiz, read the explanation for every answer you get wrong, then come back to those questions a few days later. KODO does this automatically with spaced repetition, and you can turn any topic into printable flash cards.
Is Algebra revision on KODO free?+
Yes. KODO is free for everyone until Friday 18 December 2026, with unlimited quizzes on Algebra and every other topic. After that there is still a free plan with daily quizzes.

Start practising Algebra now

Sign up free and get instant access to interactive Algebra quizzes with detailed explanations, spaced repetition and progress tracking.

Start for free Log in

More Maths Topics

NumberGeometryStatistics

Explore Other Subjects

✍ English⚗ Science⚔ History🌍 Geography💻 Computing🇪🇸 Spanish