Negative variable when factoring?

[Guest]

Hi,

Suppose the problem tells me to factor the following:

144 - x^2

So I factor it and I get:

(12 - x)(12+x)

Then I have to put the variables first so I do:

(-x+12)(x+12)

Is this that the final answer or do I have to do this:

-(x-12)(x+12)?

 

[stapel]

I wouldn't even require that you put the variables first.

I think you're dealing here with instructor preference, because each of the three formats means exactly the same thing. If your instructor wants things formatted one particular way, you'll need to get that information from him. Sorry.

Eliz.