1. Group in pairs (associative property)
Factoring by “GROUPING”
One-step check list:
a Four terms (standard form)
If no, this is the wrong method.
If yes, follow these steps: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Change center subtraction into addition (HINT! Add the opposite / two strokes)
Group in pairs (associative property)
Factor common monomials from each group
If center subtraction was changed, factor out a negative sign (CHANGE ALL SIGNS)
Factor out common binomials

2. *FACTOR OUT A NEGATIVE!!! “IF ONLY” trick:
“IF ONLY” trick:
If only I could switch around subtraction . . .
*FACTOR OUT A NEGATIVE!!!