What is the first step when rewriting y = –4x2 + 2x – 7 in the form y = a(x – h)2 + k?

To rewrite the quadratic in vertex form, first group the x² and x terms and factor out their leading coefficient, –4: y = –4(x² – ½x) – 7. This prepares the expression inside the parentheses for completing the square. Therefore, the correct choice is B, –4 must be factored from –4x² + 2x.

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