Factoring Polynomials
When you see expressions like x+3x+2, finding the product requires distributing each term in the first bracket with each term in the second. This process, called FOIL (First, Outer, Inner, Last), helps you multiply binomials efficiently.
For factoring a trinomial in the form x²+bx+c wherea=1, you're looking for two numbers that multiply to give c and add to give b. For example, with x²+11x+24, you need numbers that multiply to 24 and add to 11. These numbers are 8 and 3, giving you x+8x+3.
When factoring trinomials where a≠1 like10x2+11x−6, try the grouping method. First, find two numbers that multiply to give ac and add to give b. Then rewrite the middle term using these numbers, group terms, and find common factors to reach your final factored form.
Pro Tip: When factoring trinomials, always check your answer by multiplying the factors back together - you should get your original expression!