Question

what is the first step when factoring any polynomial?
factor out the gcf if it is not 1
factor by double grouping
factor using a formula
factor using algebra tiles or the x method

Explanation:

Factoring polynomials follows a standard order of operations, and the first step is always to simplify the polynomial by removing the greatest common factor (GCF) from all terms if the GCF is not 1. Other factoring methods are applied after this initial simplification step.

Answer:

factor out the GCF if it is not 1