Identify the polynomial to be factored: \(x^2 - 2x - 15\).
Look for two numbers that multiply to the constant term (-15) and add to the linear coefficient (-2).
The numbers that satisfy these conditions are 3 and -5, since 3 * (-5) = -15 and 3 + (-5) = -2.
Rewrite the middle term using the numbers found: \(x^2 + 3x - 5x - 15\).
Factor by grouping: Group the terms as \((x^2 + 3x) + (-5x - 15)\), then factor each group to get \(x(x + 3) - 5(x + 3)\), and finally factor out the common binomial to get \((x + 3)(x - 5)\).