Question 16790
You are correct in saying that f(x) = (x-3)(x^2-3x-5) + 2.  There is no need to multiply this out, as it will only make matters more confusing.  Leave it as it is.


Now, to find f(3), you substitute x=3 into the f(x) formula, and the whole first part subtracts out, leaving f(3) = 2.  That is your final answer!!


R^2 at SCC