-2x^3 - 2x^2 + 12x
Because we can pull out a common factor, we'll do that first to simplify the expression.
-2x(x^2 + x - 6)
Now, let's see if we can split the middle term.
Display factors of -6.
-6 * 1
-1 * 6
-3 * 2
3 * -2 (these digits satisfy the requirements for splitting the middle term)
Split the middle term.
-2x(x^2 + 3x - 2x - 6)
Group terms in pairs of two.
-2x((x^2 + 3x) - (2x - 6))
Factor each binomial.
-2x((x(x + 3)) - (2(x + 3)))
Rearrange the terms.
-2x(x - 2)(x + 3) is the fully factored form of the provided trinomial.
