Algebra Honors ( Periods 6 &7)

Using Several Methods of Factoring 5-11

A polynomial is factored completely when it is expressed as the product of a monomial and one or more prime polynomials.

Guidelines for Factoring Completely

1.     Factor out the GCF first

2.    Look for a difference of two squares

3.    Look for a perfect square trinomial

4.    If a trinomial is not a square, look for a pair of binomial factors.

5.    If a polynomial has four or more terms, look for a way to group the terms in pars or in a group of three terms that is a PERFECT SQUARE TRINOMIAL

6.    Make sure that each binomial or trinomial factor is prime.

7.    Check your work by multiplying the factors