1) rearrange the equation such that it is in the form ax² + bx = c
2) the value of a should be 1. If a≠1, divide the whole equation by a.
3) determine the value of b in x² + bx = c. Find (b/2)².
4) add (b/2)² to both sides of the equation
5) simplify and solve for x
Step by step example:
(1) 2x² + 12x = 2
(2) x² + 6x = 1
(3) b=6 ; (b/2)² = 9
(4) x² + 6x + 9 = 1 + 9
(5) (x+3)² = 10 ...then solve for x.
