Direct Answer

The simplified form is 2x² – 5x – 12

Step-by-Step Solution

Using the FOIL method (First, Outer, Inner, Last):

1. First: 2x × x = 2x²
2. Outer: 2x × (-4) = -8x
3. Inner: 3 × x = 3x
4. Last: 3 × (-4) = -12

Combining: 2x² – 8x + 3x – 12 = 2x² – 5x – 12

Key Concepts

• FOIL method for binomial multiplication
• Combining like terms