Question

How should I factor cubics in general? I have to factor \(u^3+u^2-3u-3\).

Answer 1

factor by grouping ?
factor the GCF from first two terms
factor the GCF from last two terms

Answer 2

Could you please elaborate? The GCF for the last two terms is 3 or -3 and the first two terms is 1. How should I proceed?

Answer 3

GCF of coefficients of first two terms is \(1\)
GCF of variables of first two terms is \(u^2\)

overall, GCF of first terms is \(1u^2 = u^2\)

Answer 4

\[\large u^3+u^2-3u-3\]

\[\large (u^3+u^2) + (-3u-3)\]

\[\large u^2(u+1) -3 (u+1)\]