Polynomial Factoring Calculator
Factor polynomial expressions with step-by-step solutions
Result
x^2 - 4
Understanding Polynomial Factoring
Common Methods
Greatest Common Factor
ax + ay = a(x + y)
Example: 6x² + 12x = 6x(x + 2)
Difference of Squares
a² - b² = (a + b)(a - b)
Example: x² - 16 = (x + 4)(x - 4)
Perfect Square Trinomial
x² + 2ax + a² = (x + a)²
Example: x² + 6x + 9 = (x + 3)²
Grouping
ax + ay + bx + by = (a + b)(x + y)
Example: 2x + 2y + 3x + 3y = (2 + 3)(x + y)
Key Concepts
Greatest Common Factor (GCF)
Always check for common factors first before applying other methods.
Difference of Squares
Look for expressions in the form a² - b².
Trinomials
Factor quadratic expressions ax² + bx + c.
Tips for Factoring
Step 1: GCF
Always start by factoring out the greatest common factor.
Step 2: Pattern
Identify special patterns like difference of squares.
Step 3: Check
Verify your answer by multiplying the factors.