Factoring the Sum and Difference of Cubes
Most students learn to factor polynomials by finding the greatest common factor (GCF), factoring trinomials, or using the difference of squares. But what happens when you’re asked to factor an expression containing perfect cubes? Unlike the difference of squares, both the sum and difference of cubes can be factored using special patterns. In this video, […]
Factoring and Solving Polynomials by Grouping.
Factoring polynomials can be challenging, especially when an expression contains four terms instead of the usual two or three. But what if you could break a complicated polynomial into smaller groups and use something you already know—the greatest common factor (GCF)—to factor the entire expression? In this video, you’ll learn how to factor polynomials using […]
Po-Shen Loh’s Method: Solve Quadratics WITHOUT the Quadratic Formula
Most students learn to solve quadratic equations by factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula. But what if there were another way to solve quadratics using something you already know—the axis of symmetry? In this video, you’ll learn Po-Shen Loh’s method for solving quadratic equations, an alternative approach that uses the relationship between […]
Simplifying Complex Fractions Step-by-Step
Complex fractions can look intimidating, but they’re really just a combination of algebra skills you’ve already learned. In this video, you’ll learn how to simplify complex fractions involving rational expressions by combining expressions, multiplying by the reciprocal, factoring, and canceling common factors. We’ll work through an example step-by-step and show how multiple algebra concepts come […]
Synthetic Division: Faster Than Long Division
Synthetic division is one of the fastest ways to divide polynomials—and it’s much easier than traditional polynomial long division once you understand the process. In this video, you’ll learn how synthetic division works step-by-step, including how to set up the problem, what the numbers represent, and how the multiplication-and-addition pattern helps you find the quotient […]
Factoring Trinomials When the Leading Coefficient is not 1
In this video, I show you how to factor trinomials when the leading coefficient isn’t 1 using the Bodine Method. Many students get stuck when the coefficient of x 2 is greater than 1, but this approach breaks the process into simple, logical steps that are easy to follow. You’ll learn: How to identify the […]