FACTORISATION – COMPLETE ADVANCED NOTES (EXAM &
BOARD LEVEL)
INTRODUCTION
Factorisation is one of the most important topics in mathematics because it forms the foundation of algebra,
equations, simplification, and higher-level topics such as quadratic equations, polynomials, and calculus. In
examinations, factorisation is tested not only directly but also indirectly through simplification, solving
equations, and word problems. A strong understanding of factorisation helps students reduce complex
expressions into simpler forms and makes calculations easier and more accurate.
1. MEANING OF FACTORISATION
Factorisation is the process of expressing a number or algebraic expression as a product of its factors.
Factors are numbers or expressions which divide the given quantity exactly without leaving any remainder.
When we factorise an expression, we are essentially breaking it down into its building blocks.
For example:
12 = 3 × 4
x² − 9 = (x − 3)(x + 3)
2. FACTORISATION OF NUMBERS
Before learning algebraic factorisation, it is important to understand factorisation of numbers. A factor of a
number is a whole number that divides the given number completely.
Example: Factors of 24 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24.
2.1 Prime Factorisation
Prime factorisation is the process of writing a number as a product of prime numbers only. Prime numbers
are numbers greater than 1 that have exactly two factors: 1 and the number itself.
Example:
36 = 2 × 18 = 2 × 2 × 9 = 2 × 2 × 3 × 3 = 2² × 3²
Prime factorisation is very useful in finding the Highest Common Factor (HCF) and Least Common Multiple
(LCM).
3. FACTORISATION OF ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS
Algebraic factorisation involves variables such as x, y, a, and b along with numbers. The methods of
algebraic factorisation depend on the type of expression given.
3.1 Method of Common Factor (HCF)
The first and most important step in factorisation is to check whether there is a common factor in all the
terms of the expression. If such a factor exists, it should always be taken out first.
Example:
6x² + 9x = 3x(2x + 3)
Here, 3x is the highest common factor of both terms.
3.2 Factorisation by Grouping
This method is usually applied when an expression contains four terms. The terms are grouped in pairs, and
each pair is factorised separately. A common bracket is then taken out.
Example:
x² + 3x + 2x + 6
= (x² + 3x) + (2x + 6)
= x(x + 3) + 2(x + 3)
= (x + 3)(x + 2)
3.3 Factorisation of Quadratic Expressions
A quadratic expression is an expression of the form ax² + bx + c, where a, b, and c are constants and a ≠ 0.
The most common method used is the middle-term splitting method.
Example:
2x² + 7x + 3
Here, a × c = 6. The numbers 6 and 1 add up to 7.
2x² + 6x + x + 3
= 2x(x + 3) + 1(x + 3)
= (2x + 1)(x + 3)
4. SPECIAL FACTORISATION FORMULAS
Certain algebraic expressions follow fixed identities which make factorisation quicker and easier.
4.1 Difference of Squares
a² − b² = (a − b)(a + b)
Example: x² − 16 = (x − 4)(x + 4)
4.2 Perfect Square Trinomials
a² + 2ab + b² = (a + b)²
a² − 2ab + b² = (a − b)²
Example: x² + 10x + 25 = (x + 5)²
4.3 Sum and Difference of Cubes
a³ + b³ = (a + b)(a² − ab + b²)
a³ − b³ = (a − b)(a² + ab + b²)
Example: x³ − 8 = (x − 2)(x² + 2x + 4)
5. FACTORISATION OF HIGHER DEGREE POLYNOMIALS
Higher degree expressions require multiple steps. Always look for a common factor first, then apply grouping
or identities.
Example:
x³ + x² + x + 1
= (x³ + x²) + (x + 1)
= x²(x + 1) + 1(x + 1)
= (x + 1)(x² + 1)
6. FACTORISATION INVOLVING FRACTIONS
When fractions are involved, the best approach is to take the LCM of denominators as a common factor.
Example:
x/2 + x/3 = (3x + 2x)/6 = 5x/6
7. COMMON MISTAKES
Students often forget to take out the common factor, split the middle term incorrectly, or ignore special
identities. Another common mistake is not checking the final answer by multiplying the factors back.
8. EXAM STRATEGY AND TIPS
• Always scan the expression for a common factor first.
• Identify whether a formula applies.
• Work step by step and keep expressions neat.
• Verify your answer by multiplication.
• Manage time by practising different types regularly.
CONCLUSION
Factorisation is a core topic that strengthens overall algebra skills. Mastery of this topic requires practice,
understanding of identities, and careful step-by-step work. With consistent practice, factorisation becomes
quick and intuitive, helping students perform confidently in examinations.