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==Polynomials with 4 terms==
Polynomials with 4 terms can be factored by some form of grouping. There are special groupings but the most common form is referred to as '''factoring by grouping''' and is described step by step below.<br /><br />
Example: <br /><math>a^2-3ab+4ac-12bc</math><br /><br />
'''Step 1''' Split the polynomial into groups of 2 terms.<br />
<math>(a^2-3ab)+(4ac-12bc)</math><br /><br />
'''Step 2''' Find the GCF (greatest common factor) of each group.<br />
<math>a(a-3b)+4c(a-3b)</math><br /><br />
'''Step 3''' If the 'leftovers match' factor them out.<br />
<math>(a-3b)(a+4c)</math><br /><br />
Therefore <math>a^2-3ab+4ac-12bc=(a-3b)(a+4c)</math><br /><br /><br />
==When nothing works==
If the polynomial can't be factored, then it is considered '''prime'''.
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