What is the first step in factoring a polynomial?

Factoring a polynomial typically starts with identifying the greatest common factor (GCF) of the terms within the polynomial. By extracting the GCF, you simplify the expression, making it easier to work with for further factoring steps. This initial step lays the groundwork for breaking down more complex polynomials into simpler binomials or monomials, which can be analyzed for additional factors.

Finding the GCF ensures that you are working with the most reduced form of the polynomial, facilitating subsequent steps like recognizing special polynomial forms or continuing with factorization into linear factors. It is a systematic approach to make the polynomial more manageable and sets the stage for further operations and analysis in the factoring process.