Find the value of x: x^2-3x-3=1

To begin this question you need to bring all of the terms to one side, so the equation equals 0. It is easiest to do this by subtracting 1 from each side.x^2-3x-3-1=1-1x^2-3x-4=0Now we need to factorise the equation into the form (ax+b)(cx+d)=0. Begin by working out what numbers multiply to equal 1 (the number before x^2), which is 1 and 1. Therefore, and c are both 1:(x+b)(x+d)=0To work out b and d, you need to work out what numbers multiply to equal -4, which could be -4 and +1, +4 and -1, or -2 and +2. However, these numbers must add to -3, so b and d must equal -4 and +1.(x-4)(x+1)=0
To find x, we can see one of the two factors equals zero, so:x-4=0 or x+1=0x=4 or x=-1

EH
Answered by Emma H. Maths tutor

3682 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

5x - 2 > 3x + 11


Fully factorise the expression 14x^2y - 28xy^2


How do I use the quadratic formula?


Tom tosses a coin. Every toss lands on either heads or tails. The coin lands on heads two thirds of the first 24 games. The coin then lands on heads the next 6 games. For all 30 tosses, work out the ratio heads:tails. Give the answer in the simplest form.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning