Using the factoring method, we first divide the equation 2x^2 - 4x - 6 = 0 by 2 to get x^2 - 2x - 3 = 0. We then find two numbers that multiply to -3 and add to -2, which are -3 and 1. This gives the factors (x - 3)(x + 1) = 0, so the roots are x = 3 and x = -1.