Let's try another one:

Factor   x^2 + 7x + 12

I'll give you a big start:

( x   3 ) ( x   4 )

What do you think?

The 12 is positive...

and we need a +7...

Will this work?

( x + 3 ) ( x - 4 )

No! It gives a last term of -12.

Will this work?

( x - 3 ) ( x + 4 )

No! Same reason.

What about this?

( x - 3 ) ( x - 4 )

The last term IS a positive 12...

But, the outer and inner terms give -7... So, no!

How about this? (It's our last chance!)

( x + 3 ) ( x + 4 )

Check it with FOIL... It works!