Factoring quadratic equations can be tricky, especially when the numbers in front of the squared term aren’t just one.
A quadratic equation looks like this: ( ax^2 + bx + c ). When ( a ) is not equal to 1, it makes things a bit harder because we have to find two numbers that multiply to ( ac ) and add up to ( b ).
Here’s a simpler way to do it:
Multiply: First, multiply ( a ) and ( c ) together to get ( ac ).
Find Factors: Look for pairs of numbers that can multiply to make ( ac ) and add to be ( b ).
Rewrite: Once you find those pairs, use them to change the middle part of the equation.
Group: Now, group the terms together.
Factor Out: Finally, pull out the common factors from the groups.
Even though this method is step-by-step, it still can feel like a guessing game. Many students find this approach frustrating, especially when the numbers are bigger.
Factoring quadratic equations can be tricky, especially when the numbers in front of the squared term aren’t just one.
A quadratic equation looks like this: ( ax^2 + bx + c ). When ( a ) is not equal to 1, it makes things a bit harder because we have to find two numbers that multiply to ( ac ) and add up to ( b ).
Here’s a simpler way to do it:
Multiply: First, multiply ( a ) and ( c ) together to get ( ac ).
Find Factors: Look for pairs of numbers that can multiply to make ( ac ) and add to be ( b ).
Rewrite: Once you find those pairs, use them to change the middle part of the equation.
Group: Now, group the terms together.
Factor Out: Finally, pull out the common factors from the groups.
Even though this method is step-by-step, it still can feel like a guessing game. Many students find this approach frustrating, especially when the numbers are bigger.