Solution 12136: Factoring an Expression on the TI-89 Family and Voyage 200 Graphing Calculators.
How do I factor an expression on the TI-89 family and Voyage 200 graphing calculator?
Use the factor() command, located under the F2:Algebra menu, to factor expressions on the TI-89 family, the TI-92 Family and the Voyage 200. The proper syntax for the factor() command is factor(expression)
For Example: factor(x^2-6x+5)
Some good practices when factoring expressions:
1) Delete all one-character variables by pressing F6:Clean Up ([2nd] [F1] on the TI-89 family), selecting 1:Clear a-z..., and pressing [ENTER] [ENTER].
2) Always input the multiplication symbol when multiplying two or more variables.
For Example: Input factor(5x+x*y). If the multiplication sign is omitted between x and y, the calculator will consider xy to be one variable, not "x times y".
3) To factor functions which may result in complex (imaginary) solutions, use the cfactor() command located under the MATH/Algebra/Complex menu.
Please see the TI-89 Titanium / Voyage 200 guidebook for additional information.