The Quadratic Formula is a universal tool used to find the solutions (roots) of any quadratic equation in the form axΒ² + bx + c = 0. Unlike factoring, it works for every quadratic, even those with irrational or complex solutions.
The value under the square root, bΒ² - 4ac, tells you the nature of the roots. If D > 0 (two real), D = 0 (one real), D < 0 (two complex).
Before using the formula, you must rearrange your equation so that it equals zero. Example: xΒ² + 5x = -6 becomes xΒ² + 5x + 6 = 0.
x = [-b Β± β(bΒ² - 4ac)] / 2a
Plug in your values for a (coefficient of xΒ²), b (coefficient of x), and c (the constant) to find the two possible values for x.
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