Factoring in Algebra


Lesson 2 - Factoring by Grouping


Factoring in Algebra can be accomplished in many different ways. When it comes to polynomials, each situation is different based on the make-up of the polynomial. In our last lesson, we learned how to factor by using the greatest common factor.

However, some polynomials have no greatest common factor other than 1. Therefore, we would need to choose another method for factoring.

In this case, we would look to see if the polynomial has a couple of terms with a common factor. If so, we can group them together and factor separately.

Take a look at the following example:


Example 1

3x2 - 3 + x2y - y


There are 4 terms in the polynomial. However, there are no common factors within the 4 terms.

Do you see two terms that have a common factor that could be grouped together?


factoring in algebra example


factoring in algebra example


I know that factoring can be confusing, but think of factoring as rewriting the problem using the distributive property. You want to continue factoring a polynomial until no common factors exist.

Let's look at another example.


Example 2

factoring in algebra practice



Looking for More Help?

Enter your expression into the solver and click "Factor".





Great Job! Now you are ready for our last factoring lesson, factoring trinomials.


Comments

We would love to hear what you have to say about this page!








Like Us on Facebook


Recommend this on Google


Algebra Class E-course Members

Username:
Password:

Sign Up for Algebra Class E-courses

Click here to renew or retrieve a lost password.

Search This Site

Custom Search


Need a Tutor?

Find a Local Tutor Today



[ ?]

Subscribe To This Site

XML RSS
Add to Google
Add to My Yahoo!
Add to My MSN
Add to Newsgator
Subscribe with Bloglines


Enjoy This Site?
Then why not use the button below, to add us to your favorite bookmarking service?

| Homepage | Contact Me | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer |Affiliates



Return to top
By Karin Hutchinson Copyright© Algebra-class.com 2009-2013.