How can I factor a polynomial with 4 unlike terms?

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SUMMARY

The polynomial 3x - 3y - x² + y² can be factored into (3 - x - y)(x - y). The discussion highlights the challenge of factoring polynomials with four unlike terms and provides hints for simplification. The expression 3x - 3y can be rewritten as 3(x - y), while -x² + y² can be expressed as -(x² - y²) = -(x + y)(x - y). Understanding these transformations is crucial for successful polynomial factoring.

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EricPowell
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3x-3y-x^2+y^2
My textbook says the answer is (3-x-y)(x-y)

I tried to factor it two different ways. One time I got
3(x-y)-x^2+y^2
And the other time I got
x(3-x)-y(3-y)

I've never seen a polynomial with 4 unlike terms like this before, and I am not understanding how 3-x-y is part of the answer (it has three terms in it). How does one go about factoring something like this?
 
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EricPowell said:
3x-3y-x^2+y^2
My textbook says the answer is (3-x-y)(x-y)

I tried to factor it two different ways. One time I got
3(x-y)-x^2+y^2
And the other time I got
x(3-x)-y(3-y)

I've never seen a polynomial with 4 unlike terms like this before, and I am not understanding how 3-x-y is part of the answer (it has three terms in it). How does one go about factoring something like this?

Hint: 3x-3y = 3(x-y)

and

-x^2 + y^2 = -(x^2 - y^2) = -(x+y)(x-y)

EDIT: Nice April Fool's joke, Evo. I love that avatar. Think I'll keep her.
 

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