How do you factor -1/4 out of -1/2x - 5/4y

Answer 1

Write the first term of equation as multiple of 2 which is —2/4x or —1/4*2x

second term of equation as —1/4*5y. Then write them together

(—1/4*2x) — ( 1/4*5y)

Factor out —1/4 from each term

—1/4 (2x + 5y)