Algebra 2 · Grades 9 to 11
Factoring polynomials
Write a polynomial as a product of factors.
The idea
Factoring writes a sum or difference as a product. The difference of squares rule is a² - b² = (a - b)(a + b).
Look for two perfect squares with a minus sign between them. Then write the two brackets.
Worked examples
- How to Factor a Difference of Squares Factor x^2 - 49 with the difference of squares rule. Three steps, the pattern, the mistakes that miss one bracket and practice answers.
- How to Factor Out the Greatest Common Factor Factor 6x^2 + 9x by taking out the greatest common factor. Three steps, the check by expanding, and the factoring mistakes to avoid.
- How to Factor x^2 + bx + c Factor x^2 + 7x + 12 by finding the number pair that multiplies to 12 and adds to 7. Four steps, the check, and the sign mistakes.
Practice this topic
3 problems with answers.