2b squared, plus 10b plus 12
:confused: :eek:

general solution

(ax+b)(cx+d) = acx^2+adx+bcx+bd = acx^2+(ad+bc)x+bd

so in your case (from observation) you have to solve the simultaneous equations:

ac=2
ad+bc=10
bd=12

(in your case, x is b)

Why not just write 2b^2+10b+12. Wouldn't that be easier to read?

Factor out a 2:

2(b^{2}+5b+6)

Now, factor what's inside the parentheses.

What two numbers when multiplied equals 6 and when added equals 5?

How about 2 and 3. 2*3=6 and 2+3=5.

2(b^{2}+3b+2b+6)

Now, group and factor out something common from each group.

Cap gave a very nice general approach for any quad. Use that and you'll be OK for whatever they throw at you.