Question

How do i factor -7x^2+5x+12

Answer 1

-(x + 1)(7x - 12)

Explanation:

Step 1: Factor out a -1

-1(7x² - 5x - 12)

Step 2:

Think. Answer this question: "What 2 numbers multiply up to -12 and adds up to -5 while 7 is an x coefficient?". You answer should be -12 and 1.

So, factor.

-1(x + 1)(7x - 12)

To double check, just expand/FOIL everything and see if it is the same as the original expression.