How to Factor the Difference of Squares in 2 Steps

The difference of squares is an important concept in algebra. Here’s how to factor it step-by-step.

Problem:
Factor $x^2 - 25$.

Solution:
Recognize this as a difference of squares:

$$x^2 - 25 = (x - 5)(x + 5)$$

Conclusion:
Whenever you have the difference between two squares, you can factor it into two binomials: $(a - b)(a + b)$.