Week 6 in PreCalc11 – Factoring Trinomials

Factoring trinomials is pretty easy, and there are a few different approaches possible. The main two today are simple factoring and difference of squares. Always make sure to check if it’ll Factor 1, 2, 3.

  1. Scan through all terms in the trinomial to identify if there’s a common factor.
    If one exists, factor it out.
  2. Identify the Type of Trinomial:
    Determine whether the trinomial fits the criteria of a quadratic trinomial, a perfect square trinomial, or another type.
  3. Quadratic Trinomials (ax² + bx + c):
    For quadratic trinomials, attempt factoring using either the AC method or grouping:
    Find two numbers whose product equals the product of the leading coefficient (a) and the constant term (c), and whose sum equals the middle coefficient (b).
  4. Express the middle term using these two numbers.
  5. Difference of Squares:
    For expressions in the form of a difference of squares (a² – b²), factor them into (a + b)(a – b).

Overall, there are quite a few different options available for us to use, and as long as you get to the right answer, it doesn’t make to big of a difference.

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