Factoring out common factors

Use this when every term shares a common factor $m$. Factoring out $m$ in front of parentheses is the fundamental first step in factoring.

Use this when an expression has three or more terms sharing a common factor $m$. Factoring out $m$ simplifies the entire expression.

Use this when terms share a common grouped factor $(a + b)$. Treat $(a + b)$ as a single algebraic block and factor it out.

After factoring out common factors, always check whether the expression inside the parentheses can be factored further.