How to Calculate Completing the Square
Convert a quadratic to vertex form by completing the square.
The Formula
ax² + bx + c → a(x+h)² + kThe completing the square formula uses the mathematical relationship: ax² + bx + c → a(x+h)² + k. Each variable in the formula represents a measurable quantity that affects the final result.
Step-by-Step Method
- 1Identify all input values needed for the completing the square calculation.
- 2Substitute your known values into the formula: ax² + bx + c → a(x+h)² + k.
- 3Perform the arithmetic operations in the correct order (PEMDAS/BODMAS).
- 4Check that your result has the correct units and is within a reasonable range.
- 5Verify using the interactive Completing the Square to confirm your answer.
Related Topics
completing squarequadraticalgebra
Use the Interactive Calculator
Skip the manual math — get instant results with our free Completing the Square calculator.
