Factoring by Decomposition
If a quadratic function has rational roots, it can be factored using a method called "decomposition." This can be quick way to find the roots of an equation. If a function has irrational roots or complex roots, this method will not work and you will have to use completing the square or the quadratic formula to factor it.
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Example: |
Step 1: Multiply
the coefficients of the first and last term together. Find factors of this product that add to
the coefficient of the middle term. Product of first and last
term: (2)(-6) = -12 Factors: (-1, 12), (1,
-12), (-2, 6), (2, -6) (-3, 4) and (3,
-4) |
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Step 2: |
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Step 3: Group
the first and last two terms together |
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Step 4: Factor
out of the groups |
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Step 5: Factor
the common term out of each group |
