Factoring means writing a number or expression as a product of its factors. Factoring 12 gives 3 times 4; factoring x squared plus 5x plus 6 gives (x plus 2)(x plus 3). It is the reverse of multiplying out.
Math Dictionary / Factoring
Factoring
Factoring rewrites a number or expression as a product of factors.
AlgebraGrade 6Grade 7Grade 8Algebra 1Algebra 2GEDSATACT
What it means
It is the reverse of multiplying or distributing.
Also called: factorization
Examples
| 12 = 3 x 4 |
| x^2 + 5x + 6 = (x + 2)(x + 3) |
| 6x + 9 = 3(2x + 3) |
Common mistake
Factoring changes the form, not the value, of an expression.
Try one
Question: Factor 10x + 15.
Show answer
5(2x + 3).