Factor the expression 4x^2 - 12x - 7

(2x+1) (2x-7)

Step-by-step explanation:

Multiply the coefficient of the first term by the constant 4 • - 7 = - 28

Find two factors of - 28 whose sum equals the coefficient of the middle term, which is - 12

(-28 + 1 = - 27

-14 + 2 = - 12)

Rewrite the polynomial splitting the middle term using the two factors found in step 2 above, - 14 and 2

4x2 - 14x + 2x - 7

Add up the first 2 terms, pulling out like factors:

2x • (2x-7)

Add up the last 2 terms, pulling out common factors:

1 • (2x-7)

Add up the four terms:

(2x+1) • (2x-7)