This study notes covers Worked Example 3: Three Terms within Factorising for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Factorising in Algebra for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 3 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 6 of 12 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 6 of 12
Practice
12 questions
Recall
3 flashcards
Worked Example 3: Three Terms
Factorise: 12x³ + 8x² - 4x
Step 1 Find HCF of 12, 8, 4
HCF = 4
Step 2 Find common letter (lowest power)
x³, x², x → common is x
HCF = 4x
Step 3 Divide each term
12x³ ÷ 4x = 3x²
8x² ÷ 4x = 2x
-4x ÷ 4x = -1
Final Write answer
12x³ + 8x² - 4x = 4x(3x² + 2x - 1)