How to complete the square to solve quadratic equations?

Equation: x2 +4x-5=0 (This is in the form ax2+2bx+c=0)First divide 2b by 2 (4/2=2)Then put this into (x+b)2-(b)2+c=0This gives: (x+2)2-(2)2+ -5=0 (remembering +and- makes a -)Simplify to: (x+2)2-9=0Move the 9 across: (x+2)2=9Square root both sides: x+2=+-3 (remembering the plus and minus roots)Then take away 2 from both sides to give: x= -2+-3And the two values for x now are 1 and -5

GJ
Answered by George J. Maths tutor

2913 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How to solve a simple simultaneous equation


Rearrange "(6y-30)/5 = 2x+(12/5)" so it reads "y = ... ". Sketch this line and label where it meets the axes.


What is the correct answer if you rearrange the following, making "c" the subject? (3c+b)/2 = c + a


ABC is a triangle with sides of length AB, 12m and BC,14m. Angle ACB = 43 degrees. Find the area of the triangle.


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