This method involves rewriting the equation so that the square root method can be applied.
Solving Quadratic Equations with Completing the Square
1) Move the constant to the other side of the equation.
2) Make the coefficient of the squared term 1 by dividing both sides of the equation by a.
3) Add the number that completes the square to both sides of the equation. The number that completes the square can be found by starting with the coefficient of the x term, dividing by 2 and then squaring.
4) The left hand side factors to be a perfect square.
5) Simplify the right hand side of the equation.
6) Solve the equation using the square root method.
Examples: