Mathematics

The key to factoring a quadratic like this is finding two numbers that multiply to give the product of the leading coefficient and constant term ($3 \times 4 = 12$), while also adding to the middle coefficient ($8$). Once you identify that pair, you can split the middle term and factor by grouping—this transforms an unfactorable-looking expression into one where common factors emerge naturally.

The key to factoring a quadratic like this is finding two numbers that multiply to give the product of the leading coefficient and constant term ($3 \times 4 = 12$), while also adding to the middle coefficient ($8$). Once you identify that pair, you can split the middle term and factor by grouping—this transforms an unfactorable-looking expression into one where common factors emerge naturally.