Laws of Exponents

Polynomial Formulas

There are special rules or formulas that can be used when

multiplying polynomials or factoring polynomials. Let's take a look:

Multiplying Polynomials Using FOIL

To multiply two polynomials, multiply each term in the first

polynomial by each term in the second polynomial. This is also
known as using FOIL.
For detailed examples on using the FOIL Method, please click
here.

Square of a Binomial

o square a binomial, you add: the square of the first term, twice the
product of the two terms, and the square of the last term. Take a
look:
Difference of Two Squares

When two binomials differ only by the sign between their terms
(one a plus, the other a minus), we call this a Difference of Two
Squares.

The rule is very easy to remember: Subtract the square of the

second term from the square of the first term. Take a look:

Perfect Square Trinomial

A perfect square trinomial results in binomial squares.

If you notice that the first and last terms are perfect squares, then
check to see if the trinomial factors as a binomial square.
Difference of Two Squares

The Sum and Difference of Two Cubes

The following are the formulas for factoring the sum and difference
of two cubes:
Quadratic Formula

ou can use the quadratic formula to solve ANY quadratic equation.

It is used most when the quadratic equation is non-factorable.
Vertex Formula

The vertex formula is used when you must find the vertex
(minimum or maximum point) of the parabola.

Pythagorean Theorem

The Pythagorean Theorem is used to identify the length of the sides

of any right triangle.
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