How to Factor Second Degree Polynomials (Quadratic Equations)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Set up your expression.

   The standard format for the quadratic equation is:ax2 + bx + c = 0 Start by ordering the terms in your equation from highest to lowest power, just like this standard format.
   
   For example, take:6 + 6x2 + 13x = 0 We will re-order this expression so it's easier to work with by simply moving the terms around:6x2 + 13x + 6 = 0 , Factoring the polynomial will result in two smaller expressions which can be multiplied to produce the original polynomial:6x2 + 13x + 6 = (2x + 3)(3x + 2) In this example, (2x +3) and (3x + 2) are factors of the original expression, 6x2 + 13x +
   6. , Multiply the factors you identified.
   
   Then combine like terms and you're done.
   
   Start with:(2x + 3)(3x + 2) Let's test it, multiplying the terms using FOIL (first
   - outer
   - inner
   - last), obtaining:6x2 + 4x + 9x + 6 From here, we can add 4x and 9x together since they're like terms.
   
   We know our factors are correct because we get the equation we started with:6x2 + 13x + 6
2. 2

   Step 2: Find the factored form using one of the methods below.

3. 3

   Step 3: Check your work!

Detailed Guide

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