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Sum - GCSE Maths Definition

Reviewed by: Dan Finlay

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In mathematics, the sum (of a set of numbers, or algebraic terms) is their total - i.e. the result from adding them together. It is a general term that can refer to the addition of many different quantities. For example,

  • the sum of the values 4, 5, -3 and 2 is 4 + 5 + -3 + 2 = 8

  • the angle sum of a triangle is 180° (i.e. the three angles in a triangle add up to 180°)

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Dan Finlay

Reviewer: Dan Finlay

Expertise: Maths Subject Lead

Dan graduated from the University of Oxford with a First class degree in mathematics. As well as teaching maths for over 8 years, Dan has marked a range of exams for Edexcel, tutored students and taught A Level Accounting. Dan has a keen interest in statistics and probability and their real-life applications.

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