Factor by Grouping
This lesson will utilize Factoring by Grouping as an efficient method of factoring a polynomial whose leading coefficient is NOT “1” .
Factor by Grouping
In step (3) the order of the center terms does not matter, as the problem will factor properly either way.
This process of factoring by grouping also works in simpler expressions, where the leading coefficient is “1”.
Factoring by Grouping condensed:
1. Find the product of ac.
2. Find two factors of ac that add to up to b.
3. Split the middle term into two terms using these factors.
4. Group the four terms to form two pairs.
5. Factor each pair.
6. Factor out the common (shared) binomial parenthesis