- Factor
- Input help
On this page you can factor any expression according to standard algebra rules. If you need another operation, press the appropriate operation tab.
Which algebraic expressions can be factored?
If an expression is a factorable sum (e.g. a2-b2), the Quickmath Solver will perform the factoring operation, but only if the expression is already completely simplified.
How can I factor an equation or an inequality?
Equations and inequalities are not factorable; they can only be solved. Please press the Solve tab to solve an equation or inequality.
How do I enter another expression to factor?
Press the New. Please note that your current expression will be deleted.
How can I enter an exponent?
First enter the base. Then press the ^ key and enter the exponent. AFter you are done, make sure to press ➡ or Right arrow key to return to the base.
How do I enter a mixed number (e.g. 7 ½) ?
The Quickmath Solver doesn't have notation for mixed numbers. Instead enter it as a sum(e.g. 7+½). Note that negative mixed numbers have to be placed in parentheses, for example -(7+½).
How can I enter a fraction?
Fractions can be entered in two different ways. You can use the fraction template key ÷, and fill-in the numerator and denominator. However, if you have already entered the numerator (for example in in 'x+y' you want the variable 'y' to be the fraction's numerator), to use the fraction line symbol /. Note that if in the previous example if you wanted the entire 'x+y' to be in the numerator, you would first have to place it in parentheses : '(x+y)'. If you are using the fraction template, then you don't need to worry about such parentheses.
How do I divide?
First, press the F to access the alternate keyboard. Then, press the : for division.
How can I enter an expression under a root?
If you need a square root, press √, and enter the expression under the root. For cube root, press F and then ∛. Cube root index can be edited if you need higher order roots. You can use ⬅ or Left arrow key on your keyboard to access it.
How do I edit something in the middle of an expression without having to delete everything?
Use the ⬅ or Left arrow key to move the cursor to the editing point.
The large majority of the problems found in a typical algebra textbook can be easily entered using the primary keyboard layout. Sometimes, you will need to enter a different variable, a function (such as sin, cos or ln), or a special constant (such as π). These symbols can be found on alternative keyboard layouts accessible via A and F keys. Note that after you have pressed an alternate keyboard key, the keyboard reverts back to the primary keyboard.
The ↻ key remembers the last used variable. This should speed up the problem entry since you won't have to repeatedly access the alternate keyboard layout for frequently used variables.
The left and right arrow keys can be used to move through the expression, one character at the time. The right arrow key ➡ can also be used to 'exit' exponents, denominators, parentheses as well as the absolute value expressions.
Always pay attention of your cursor location. For example, if you type in x^3 to enter the power x3, press ➡ to return to the base before entering another term (e.g. x3+3x). If you don't, then your expression will look like this: x3+3x.
When you press the ( key, both left and right parenthesis are created, and the cursor is placed inside them. Once you are done entering the parenthesized expression, press ➡ or Right arrow key to exit the parentheses. The same concept applies to the absolute value key.
When you want to enter a subscript, first enter the variable and then press _ to enter the subscript. Once you are done with the subscript press ➡ to 'exit the subscript. The same concept applies to the power key ^. Radical expressions are handled in a different manner. You will first need to presss the root key √, and then enter the expression.