Divide Polynomials by Factoring

Division of Polynomials

Names of the Parts of a Fraction

Considering how complex these parts are will determine how to divide.

Factoring the Dividend

When you can factor the dividend (less than 3 terms), you can reduce your fractions which is on way to divide your polynomials.

Other Types of Factoring

Here is a different way to factor which will also be helpful. Remember: You need to find something that multiplies to be the last number and adds to be the middle number.

Long Division with Polynomials

Remember the numerator (dividend) goes inside the house, while the denominator (divisor) goes on the outside of the house.

Step 1:

Divide the first term of the divisor into the first term of the dividend. 

Step 2:

Multiply the x in the quotient position by the divisor. 

Step 3:

Subtract from the dividend. 

Step 4:

Repeat this process until you are finished.