How do I solve quadratic equation by completing the square : X^2 - 4X = 5

We have X2 - 4X = 5, write the expression on the left side as X2 - 2•2X = 5. Then we would need extra term 4 to complete the square, so adding 4 on the both sides gives us, X2 - 2•2X + 4 = 5 +4. Simplify further to get: (X-2)2 = 9 , take square root on both sides , X - 2 = ± 3 ⇒ X = 2 ± 3 . Therefore, X = -1 or X = 5 .

RK
Answered by Rabin K. Maths tutor

3927 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is it that sin^2(x) + cos^2(x) = 1?


How does finding the gradient of a line and the area under a graph relate to real world problems?


integrate (2x^4 - 4/sqrt(x) + 3)dx


Simplify (7+sqrt(5))/(sqrt(5)-1), leaving the answer in the form a+b*sqrt(5)


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