# Math Help - Shortcut for Factoring Polynomials

1. ## Shortcut for Factoring Polynomials

Hi,
Quick question.

Say we have a polynomial $k^2 + k - 12$, one can use FOIL to find the factors.

However, is there a shortcut for doing the opposite.

i.e. I have $(k-3)(k+4)$ but want to find the polynomial? What confused me is that $- 3.-4$ will give -12 but so will $+3.-4$.

Thanks

2. Originally Posted by dumluck
Hi,
Quick question.

Say we have a polynomial $k^2 + k - 12$, one can use FOIL to find the factors.

However, is there a shortcut for doing the opposite.

i.e. I have $(k-3)(k+4)$ but want to find the polynomial? What confused me is that $- 3.-4$ will give -12 but so will $+3.-4$.

Thanks
A minus times a minus cannot give you a minus. It gives you a plus.

-3 x -4 = +12

3. Originally Posted by dumluck
Say we have a polynomial $k^2 + k - 12$, one can use FOIL to find the factors.
However, is there a shortcut for doing the opposite.
i.e. I have $(k-3)(k+4)$ but want to find the polynomial? What confused me is that $- 3.+4$ will give -12 but so will $+3.-4$
Look at the linear term, $\mathbf+k$. That $+$ tells us that it is $-3,~+4$. Do you see why?

4. Originally Posted by Plato
Look at the linear term, $\mathbf+k$. That $+$ tells us that it is $-3,~+4$. Do you see why?
Thanks Plato. I don't see why I'm afraid. could +k not equally denote that is could be -4, +3? It would equate to -12?

5. Originally Posted by dumluck
Thanks Plato. I don't see why I'm afraid. could +k not equally denote that is could be -4, +3? It would equate to -12?
If you add $+3~\&~-4$ we get $-1$ not $+1k$. But $-3+4=+1k$.

6. Originally Posted by Plato
If you add $+3~\&~-4$ we get $-1$ not $+1k$. But $-3+4=+1k$.
ah ok so $(k + (b))(k + (c))$ must translate to $(k)^2 + (b+c)k + (b.c)$?