Factor completely m^2 - 5m - 14 show your work

The fully factored form is (m - 7) (m + 2)

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to factor the equation (or any quadratic equation with a first coefficient of 1), you need to look for factors of the last number (-14) that add up to the middle number (-5). So, start by listing the factors of - 14.

1, - 14

-1, 14

2, - 7

-2, 7

The two numbers that add up to - 5 are 2 and - 7. We now use these in parenthesis with the variable.

(m - 7) (m + 2)

Factor m^2-5m-14

(m-7) (m+2)