How to factor a problem

I don't have an equation so I made one up. If you need me to explain my steps I'll be more than happy too.

X^2+5x+4

(x+4) (x+1)

The thing you really have to do is pay attention to the exponents so you know if you put in x or x^2. Just ask yourself what you can add to get 5 but you can multiply to get 4? If you ask yourself a question like that then you'll be good.