Activity (Process)

How to Factor Perfect Square Trinomials

To factor perfect square trinomials, follow a three-step procedure:

  1. Check if the trinomial fits the perfect square pattern. Determine if the first term is a perfect square and write it as a2a^2. Determine if the last term is a perfect square and write it as b2b^2. Then, verify if the middle term is exactly twice the product of aa and bb (2ab2ab).
  2. Write the square of the binomial. If the trinomial matches the pattern a2+2ab+b2a^2 + 2ab + b^2, factor it as (a+b)2(a + b)^2. If it matches the pattern a22ab+b2a^2 - 2ab + b^2, factor it as (ab)2(a - b)^2.
  3. Check by multiplying. Expand the squared binomial to confirm it equals the original perfect square trinomial.

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Updated 2026-04-29

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