Question

what is the first step in writing $f(x) = 6x^2 + 5 - 42x$ in vertex form?
factor 6 out of the first two terms.
write the function in standard form.
factor 6 out of each term.
write the trinomial as a binomial squared.

Explanation:

Vertex form conversion for a quadratic starts with arranging the function into standard quadratic form $f(x)=ax^2+bx+c$, which orders terms by descending powers of $x$. The given function $f(x)=6x^2+5-42x$ is not in this ordered structure, so standardizing its term order is the first necessary step.

Answer:

Write the function in standard form.