# Factoring

## General Strategy for Factoring Polynomials


### Recognize and Use the Appropriate Method to Factor a Polynomial Completely

You have now become acquainted with all the methods of factoring that you will need in this course. The following chart summarizes all the factoring methods we have covered, and outlines a strategy you should use when factoring polynomials.
Remember, a polynomial is completely factored if, other than monomials, its factors are prime!
Be careful when you are asked to factor a binomial as there are several options!
The next example can be factored using several methods. Recognizing the trinomial squares pattern will make your work easier.
Remember, sums of squares do not factor, but sums of cubes do!
When using the sum or difference of cubes pattern, being careful with the signs.
Taking out the complete GCF in the first step will always make your work easier.
When we have factored a polynomial with four terms, most often we separated it into two groups of two terms. Remember that we can also separate it into a trinomial and then one term.

### Key Concepts

1. How to use a general strategy for factoring polynomials.



### Practice Makes Perfect

Recognize and Use the Appropriate Method to Factor a Polynomial Completely
In the following exercises, factor completely.

### Writing Exercises


### Self Check

ⓐ After completing the exercises, use this checklist to evaluate your mastery of the objectives of this section.
ⓑ On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate your mastery of this section in light of your responses on the checklist? How can you improve this?