Polynomial Operations
Add, subtract, multiply, and factor polynomials.
Practice Problems
(2x + 3)(x - 4)
(x + 5)²
Pro Tips & Shortcuts
SAT Tip: The degree tells you the maximum number of solutions and the general shape of the graph.
SAT Tip: Organize your work by writing terms in descending order of exponents.
SAT Tip: FOIL (First, Outer, Inner, Last) works for binomials, but for larger polynomials use the distributive property.
SAT Tip: Double-check your signs, especially with negative numbers.
SAT Tip: Memorize these patterns - they appear frequently and save time.
Leading coefficient is the coefficient of the highest degree term.
Circle or underline like terms to avoid missing any when combining.
For (x + a)(x + b), the result is x² + (a+b)x + ab.
The middle term comes from combining Outer and Inner products.
Don't make the mistake: (x + 5)² ≠ x² + 25. The middle term 2ab is crucial!