How do you factor an expression?

For example: 49x + 14

Use the undistributive property

ab+ac=a (b+c)

so find factors and find 'a'

49x=7 times 7 times x

14=2 times 7

the common one is 7

a=7

7 (7x) + 7 (2) = 7 (7x+2)

To factor an expression first find the biggest factor that both the numbers can be divided. then put the factor out side the brackets and multiples inside.

in this question, the common factor is 7, so put it outside the brackets,

7 (?+?)

now divide both numbers by 7 and write the answer inside the brackets.

7 (7x+2)

we can't put x out side the brackets because only one number has x, so instead put it inside with the number.

answer = 7 (7x+2)