Question

How do I factor: x^3-7x-6

Answer 1

I'm sorry if it is wrong... I am a bit rusty at this but this is the best I could do.

x^3 - 7x - 6
= x^3 - 2x^2 - 3x + 2x^2 - 4x - 6
= (x^3 - 2x^2 - 3x) + (2x^2 - 4x - 6)
= x(x^2 - 2x - 3) + 2(x^2 - 2x - 3)
= (x^2 - 2x - 3)(x + 2)
= (x^2 + x - 3x - 3)(x + 2)
= [(x^2 + x) - (3x + 3)](x + 2)
= [x(x + 1) - 3(x + 1)](x + 2)

Answer 2

That's alright. It looks right, since I'm understanding how you did it. I'll try it out using your steps to see if I get the same answer. Thank you!

Answer 3

No problem!