Algebra: Chapter 13, Lesson 3, page 586.
Solving quadratics by completing the squares
We can use the technique of completing the square to solve quadratic equations. Recall that the addition property allows us to add a number to both sides of the equation. To complete a square, take of the x-coefficient, square it and add it to both sides of the quadratic equation.
For example:
becomes by adding 7 to both sides.
Now, take of the x coefficient (the in ). of the is . Now square that, and
by adding 4 to both sides to complete the square.
REMEMBER: factored becomes
or by square rooting each side to so that
or and as the final solutions.
Purplemath explains it too, just click here for step-by-step instructions.