This is the most simple method of solving a quadratic equation. Take the formula discovered last section,
x = (-b ± Ö(b² - 4ac)) / 2a
If you have a quadratic in the form of ax² + bx + c = 0, then all you need to do is plug the a, b, and c into the formula to find the value of x. For example: 3x² - 2x - 11 = 0 is plugged in as x = (-(-2) ± Ö((-2)² - 4(3)(-11))) / 2(3)
Now you must simplify:
1. Use PEMDAS and go through, distributing negatives and exponents: x = (2 ± Ö(4² - 4(3)(11))) /2(3)
2. Multiply! x = (2 ± Ö(4 + 132))/6
3. Add! x = (2 ± Ö136)/6
4. Simplify the square route: x = (2 ± 2Ö34)/6
5. Factor out stuff inside the parenthesis: x = 2(1 ± Ö34)/6
6. Divide and you're done! x = (1 ± Ö34)/3
That's all there is to it! Now you are ready to beat Mr. Linear and venture forth into the uncharted waters of: Graphing.