In order to factor the polynomial: $x^3+6x^2+9x$ completely, should you factor out a GCF first? Why or why not?

• A. Yes; but you must factor out $x^3$ as the GCF to reduce the polynomial to a constant times a binomial.
• B. Yes; factor out $x$ first to obtain $x(x^2+6x+9)$, which then factors to $x(x+3{)}^2$.
• C. No; instead factor by grouping the terms into $x^3+6x^2$ and $\left(9x\right)$ only, without extracting a GCF from the entire polynomial.
• D. No; the polynomial is prime and cannot be simplified by factoring a common factor first, so attempt other methods directly.

Answer: (B)