Factoring with the Box Method

The video tutorial covers basic factoring, focusing on the table box method. It explains the conditions for using basic factoring, such as the presence of a squared term and a coefficient of 1. The tutorial provides a detailed explanation of the table box method, followed by three example problems that demonstrate the method in action. The examples include factoring polynomials with different characteristics, such as larger numbers and zero X terms.

What is a necessary condition for using basic factoring?

• The polynomial must have a squared term with a coefficient of 1.

• The polynomial must have a linear term.

• The polynomial must have a cubic term.

• The polynomial must have a constant term.

In the table box method, where do you place the x squared term?

• Bottom left box

• Top left box

• Top right box

• Bottom right box

What should you do after finding the factors of the constant term?

• Add them together to get the coefficient of the x term.

• Multiply them together to get the coefficient of the x term.

• Divide them to get the coefficient of the x term.

• Subtract them to get the coefficient of the x term.

How do you find the factors of a larger number using a calculator?

• Use the sine function.

• Use the logarithm function.

• Use the y equals function and divide by x.

• Use the square root function.

What should you do if the factors need to add up to a negative number?

• Change the signs of the factors to negative.

• Ignore the negative sign.

• Multiply the factors by -1.

• Use only positive factors.

What should you do if you start seeing repeat numbers when finding factors?

• Stop as you have found all the factors.

• Multiply the factors by 2.

• Continue looking for more factors.

• Change the signs of the factors.

What is the first step in the table box method?

• Find the factors of the constant term.

• Draw the box.

• Place the x squared term in the top left box.

• Write down the polynomial.

How do you handle a polynomial with no middle term in the table box method?

• Multiply the constant term by 2.

• Add a random middle term.

• Assume the middle term is zero.

• Ignore the middle term.

What should you always remember to include after splitting the middle term in the table box method?

• The exponent of the x term.

• The variable x.

• The constant term.

• The coefficient of the x term.

What is the final step in the table box method?

• Add the factors together.

• Divide the factors.

• Write the factors in parentheses.

• Multiply the factors together.