Use ^ for powers (e.g., x^2 for x²)
Examples:
x^2 - 5x + 6→ (x - 2)(x - 3)x^2 - 9→ (x + 3)(x - 3)2x^2 + 4x→ 2x(x + 2)x^2 + 6x + 9→ (x + 3)²
Use ^ for exponents,* for multiplication (optional), and standard + and - for operations.
Factoring is the process of breaking down an algebraic expression into simpler expressions (called factors) that, when multiplied together, give the original expression. It's the reverse of expanding or multiplying expressions. Factoring is a fundamental skill in algebra that helps solve equations, simplify expressions, and find roots of polynomials.
For example, the expression x² - 5x + 6 can be factored into (x - 2)(x - 3). When you multiply these factors back together using FOIL (First, Outer, Inner, Last), you get the original expression. This factored form reveals that x = 2 and x = 3 are the roots (solutions) of the equation x² - 5x + 6 = 0.
Enter your polynomial expression using standard notation. Use ^ for exponents (e.g., x^2 for x²). The calculator will automatically identify the best factoring technique and provide step-by-step solutions. You can choose different variables and factoring depths based on your needs.
The calculator handles:
- Greatest Common Factor (GCF) extraction
- Difference of squares (a² - b²)
- Perfect square trinomials (a² ± 2ab + b²)
- Quadratic trinomials using the AC method
- Factoring by grouping for higher-degree polynomials
This factoring calculator applies standard algebraic factoring techniques. Some expressions may be irreducible over the real numbers. For complex factoring needs or expressions that don't factor nicely with integer coefficients, additional mathematical tools may be required.