Algebra Calculators
6 free algebra calculators — all with step-by-step working shown
Solve equations, factorise and expand brackets with working shown.
Quadratic Formula Calculator
Solve any quadratic equation with full working shown
Linear Equation Solver
Solve linear equations with full working shown
Simultaneous Equations Solver
Solve two equations with two unknowns — step by step
Expanding Brackets Calculator
Expand single and double brackets with working shown
Factorising Calculator
Factorise expressions with full working shown
Nth Term Calculator
Find the nth term formula for any arithmetic sequence
Why step-by-step working matters
Algebra is at the heart of GCSE and A-Level maths. Our algebra calculators solve linear equations, quadratic equations, simultaneous equations, and more — all with full working so you can follow each step. Expanding brackets, factorising, and finding the nth term are also covered.
Unlike calculators that show only the final answer, every Pythagorist tool displays the complete method — the same working you would write in an exam. This means you can understand the process, not just copy a number. Students who understand the method score more marks, because examiners award points for correct working even when the final answer contains an arithmetic error.
Common algebra questions
What is algebra used for?
Algebra is used to solve problems involving unknown values. It appears in science, engineering, finance and everyday life — from calculating distances to working out mortgage payments. In maths exams, algebra questions test your ability to form and solve equations.
How do you solve a linear equation?
To solve a linear equation like 2x + 3 = 11, isolate the variable by performing inverse operations: subtract 3 from both sides to get 2x = 8, then divide both sides by 2 to get x = 4. Always do the same operation to both sides.
What are algebraic expressions?
An algebraic expression is a combination of numbers, variables (like x or y), and operations (+, −, ×, ÷). For example, 3x + 5 is an expression. Unlike equations, expressions do not have an equals sign and cannot be solved — only simplified or evaluated.
How do you expand brackets in algebra?
To expand a single bracket, multiply every term inside by the term outside. For example, 3(x + 4) = 3x + 12. For double brackets like (x + 2)(x + 3), use FOIL: multiply the First, Outer, Inner and Last terms to get x² + 5x + 6.
What is the quadratic formula?
The quadratic formula solves ax² + bx + c = 0: x = (−b ± √(b² − 4ac)) / 2a. The value b² − 4ac is called the discriminant. If it is positive there are two solutions, if zero there is one solution, and if negative there are no real solutions.