There are several rules for factoring. The first rule is to find the greatest common factor (GCF) for the polynomial. If there is any factor in common in the polynomial, divide each term by that factor. Then, rewrite the polynomial using the distributive property with the common factor on the outside of the parenthesis.

Rule #1

Always see if you can factor something out!

GCF—Greatest Common Factor

Example

2x3 – 2x2 - 12x
= 2x (x2 – x – 6)

In your notes, factor the following problem by looking for a GCF:

4x3 + 16x2 + 8x

What is the common factor?

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(4x)Close Pop Up

What do you get when you divide by the common factor?

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4x (x2 + 4x + 2)Close Pop Up