Mathematics for IGCSE & O level - Algebraic Manipulation (Section 6 - No. 20)

In the expression ax² + bx + c, if the coefficient of 'a' is not 1, what is the first step to factorize?

Find the factors of c.

Find two numbers that multiply to ac and add to b.

Factor out a.

Use the quadratic formula.

When the coefficient of the x² term is not 1, it requires identifying the combination of factors of 'ac' that sum up to 'b'.