Factoring Trinomials By Grouping


In these lessons, we will learn to factor trinomials by grouping.




Share this page to Google Classroom

Related Pages
Factoring Techniques
Factor Theorem
Solving Quadratic Equations
More Algebra Lessons
Grade 9 Math

When factoring trinomials by grouping, we first split the middle term into two terms. We then rewrite the pairs of terms and take out the common factor.

The following diagram shows an example of factoring a trinomial by grouping. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions on how to factor trinomials by grouping.

Factor by Grouping

Example:
Factor the following trinomial using the grouping method.
x2 + 6x + 8

Solution:
Step 1: Find the product ac:
(1)(8) = 8

Step 2: Find of two factors of 8 that add up to 6:
4 and 2

Step 3: Write 6x as the sum of 2x and 4x:
x2 + 2x + 4x + 8

Step 4: Group the two pairs of terms:
(x2 + 2x) + (4x + 8)

Step 5: Take out the common factors from each group:
x(x + 2) + 4(x + 2)

Step 6: Since the two quantities in parentheses are now identical. That means we can factor out a common factor of (x + 2):
(x + 4)(x + 2)




Example:
Factor the following trinomial using the grouping method.
5x2 - 13 x + 6

Solution:
Step 1: Find the product ac:
(5)(6) = 30

Step 2: Find of two factors of 30 that add up to 13:
3 and 10

Step 3: Write -13x as the sum of -3x and -10x:
5x2 - 3x - 10x + 6

Step 4: Group the two pairs of terms:
(5x2 - 3x) - (10x + 6)

Step 5: Take out the common factors from each group:
x(5x - 3) - 2(5x - 3)

Step 6: Since the two quantities in parentheses are now identical. That means we can factor out a common factor of (x - 2):
(x - 2)(5x - 3)

How to factor trinomials by grouping?

Example:
Factor 12x2 + 34x + 10



Factor Trinomial By Grouping
Factor: 6x2 + 15x - 21

Factor Trinomial, GCF And Then Grouping Method
Factor: -6x2 + 60x - 28

Factoring Trinomials: The Grouping Method
Factor: 8x2 + 35x + 12

How to factor Trinomials using GCF and the Grouping Method?
Factor: 6x2 - 3x - 45

Try the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
Mathway Calculator Widget



We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.