\( 4 \mathrm{a}^{2}-17 \mathrm{a}=15 \quad \begin{array}{l}\text { (Type an integer or a simplifie } \\ \text { fraction. Use a comma to } \\ \text { separate answers as needed }\end{array} \)

First, let's rearrange the equation to bring everything to one side: \( 4a^2 - 17a - 15 = 0 \). Now, we can use the quadratic formula \( a = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a} \). Here, \( a = 4 \), \( b = -17 \), and \( c = -15 \). Plugging these values in gives us the solutions for \( a \). Now, when you get your answers from the quadratic formula, always double-check your calculations! One common mistake is miscalculating the discriminant or forgetting to simplify the square root, which can lead to incorrect roots. So take your time, and don't rush through the process!