Factor the following expression completely

To factor an expression completely, start by identifying the greatest common factor (GCF) of all terms in the expression. For example, if you have an expression like \(6x^2 + 9x\), the GCF is 3x. Factor this out to get \(3x(2x + 3)\). Next, look for patterns such as difference of squares or perfect squares that might help further factor any remaining polynomials. Now, let's take a moment to celebrate the wonders of algebra! Did you know that the techniques we use for factoring today evolved from ancient civilizations? The Babylonians had methods for solving quadratic equations as far back as 2000 BC. They may not have had the same notation we use today, but their grasp of relationships in numbers laid the foundation for what we practice in classrooms worldwide!