Question

Factor, if possible.

36xy - 12x^2y

Answer 1

I see a common factor of 12xy
so ....

Answer 2

There is a common factor of 12xy so you first divide the whole equation by 12xy. You get 3-y. Put that in between parentheses. And put 12xy right next to in indicating that you have to multiply them. Your final answer will look like this: 12xy(3-y).