Theory
An algebraic fraction has algebra in the numerator, denominator, or both.
Only factors can be cancelled. A factor is something multiplied with another part. You cannot cancel a term from inside an addition or subtraction unless you factorise first.
If the numerator or denominator has more than one term, factorise first and then look for a common factor to cancel.
To add or subtract algebraic fractions, use a common denominator, just like with number fractions.
Keep the denominator restrictions in mind. If x is in a denominator, values that make the denominator zero are not allowed.
Edexcel method marks often reward the factorising step separately from the cancelling step, so show both.
Key ruleFactorise, cancel common factors, then combine over a common denominator.