Question

question
factor.
$x^2 - 3x - 4$
answer attempt 1 out of

Explanation:

Step1: Find pair of factors for -4

We need two numbers that multiply to $-4$ and add to $-3$. These numbers are $-4$ and $1$.

Step2: Split middle term and factor

Rewrite the quadratic using the pair, then factor by grouping:
$x^2 - 4x + x - 4 = x(x-4) + 1(x-4)$

Step3: Combine common factors

Factor out the common binomial $(x-4)$:
$(x-4)(x+1)$

Answer:

$\boldsymbol{(x-4)(x+1)}$