The First time I tried this problem I found it challenging because… I was confused with another way of solving a similar problem. I also got confused on how the end results should look with the same similar problem which would look like this example: x2 + 6x + 8.

At first, I would do the X with 3 x2 + 14x + 8, without multiplying the 3 with 8. Then I finally realized I was doing it wrong and I started multiplying them. Secondly, I would confuse the endings, so the result for x2 + 6x +8 is (x+2)(x+4), so for 3 x2+ 14x +8 the result I would put was (x+2)(x+12), instead of (3 x2 +12x)(2x+8) and then 3x( x+4) 2(x+4) = (x+4)(3x+2). I still get confused a bit but I need more practice.

The strategies I used to figure this out were to go back to my notes and look at the practice sheets that the teacher gave us.

Some concepts and/or skills I need to remember is that if there is a coefficient then I either need to focus on two things. The first one is if they all have a number in common, if they do then I need to factor it out, so for example 3 x2 +6x +3 would become 3(x2 + 2x +3) and I solve it. If they don’t have a number in common then I solve it how I did in the second question.

Next time I encounter a difficult problem, I might try asking my friends if they understand and if they can explain. I can look back to my notes and the exercises we have made. Finally, I can ask the teacher.

P.s. I finally understand it better as in this moment that I’m writing this, earlier in the day I was still confusing them.