Did you know that quadratic expressions like have been studied for centuries? The famous mathematician Bhaskara II, in the 12th century, developed methods for solving such equations, paving the way for modern algebra! It’s incredible how these concepts have evolved, influencing countless scientific and engineering fields today.

When working with polynomials like this one, a common mistake is neglecting to factor out the greatest common factor first, if there is one. Here, you actually can’t simplify it further, but it’s essential to check! Also, when applying the quadratic formula, ensuring you keep track of the signs can make a world of difference in your final answer. Happy solving!