Learn how to factor a polynomial by using the grouping technique

What is the first step in factoring a polynomial with four terms by grouping?

• Rewrite the polynomial in standard form

• Factor out the largest coefficient

• Combine all terms into one group

• Group the first two and last two terms

If you cannot factor out a GCF from the grouped terms, what should you do next?

• Use the quadratic formula

• Rewrite the middle terms and try again

• Conclude that the polynomial is not factorable

• Try a different factoring method

In the example provided, what is the GCF of the first group, X^3 + 5X^2?

• X

• X^2

• X^3

• 5

What is the GCF of the second group, -9X and -45?

• 5

• X

• -45

• -9

After factoring out the common factor from both expressions, what should you do to verify your factorization?

• Apply the quadratic formula

• Simplify the expression

• Use the distributive property

• Check the degree of the polynomial