Question

check all of the possible first steps in factoring a polynomial with four terms.
factor out a gcf
factor the difference of cubes
factor a sum of cubes
factor a difference of squares
factor a perfect-square trinomial
factor by grouping
done

Explanation:

• Factoring out a GCF (Greatest Common Factor) is a universal first step for any polynomial, including those with four terms, as it simplifies the entire expression.
• Factoring by grouping is specifically designed for polynomials with four terms, where you group pairs of terms, factor out the GCF from each pair, and then factor out the common binomial factor.
• The other options (difference of cubes, sum of cubes, difference of squares, perfect-square trinomial) apply to polynomials with fewer terms or specific term structures, not as first steps for a general four-term polynomial.

Answer:

• factor out a GCF
• factor by grouping