What you’ll learn
Factor numerical/algebraic expressions.
Key idea
The outside factor must multiply every inner term back to its original term.
Every term must be divided by the outside factor; an expanded equivalent does not satisfy a requested GCF-factorized structure.
Worked example
Enter the exact value or ordered values in the format requested below.
Factor 6x+30 using its greatest common numerical factor. Enter the factored expression, not an expanded equivalent.
- The greatest common factor of 6 and 30 is 6.
- Divide both terms by 6; 6(1x+5) distributes to 6x+30.
Answer: 6(1x+5)
Quick Check
Evaluate a worked attempt at factor numerical/algebraic expressions, identify the first invalid step, and provide the correction.
A student writes Step 1: GCF(7,42)=7. Step 2: 7x+42=7(1x+42). Locate the first invalid step and correct the factorization.