Now that we have the numbers, lock them in like this:

First: 1 * 2 and Last: 2 * 3 gives ( x - 2 ) ( 2x + 3 ) ... the inner terms give - 4x and the outer terms give 3x

So,

2x^2 - x - 6 = ( x - 2 ) ( 2x + 3 )

Check with FOIL!


YOUR TURN:

Factor   3x^2 - 2x - 8


Here's another one:

Factor  4x^2 - 16x+ 7

Since the last guy is prime, let's lock him down first:

(     1 ) (     7 )