2) Solving quadratic equations by factoring. This method will only work if the equation is actually factorable. Make sure that you make the equation equal to zero before you attempt to factor it. Remember to look for a Greatest Common Factor (GCF), the Difference of Two Squares, or a Perfect Square Trinomial. If you have none of these, then factor by guessing! After factoring, you must set each factor equal to zero and then solve using the Zero-Product Property. You may get two, one or no solutions. Click here to see an example of solving by factoring. Next try your hand at this practice quiz. Keep trying quizzes until you can answer all five questions correctly. If you are still not understanding, go to CoolMath or PurpleMath.
3) Solving quadratic equations by completing the square. This method will work on any quadratic equation. Make sure that the equation equals zero and that the leading coefficient is one (divide the whole equation by the number in front of x squared). Click here to see examples and then try practice quizzes until you are 100% successful. If you still need help, go to CoolMath or PurpleMath.
4) Solving by using the quadratic formula. This method works for any quadratic equation and is probably the easiest. Make sure the equation equals zero before finding a, b, and c. Click here to see an example and then try practice quizzes until you are 100% successful. Go to CoolMath or PurpleMath for more help.