How do you solve a quadratic equation? I always forget how to do that!

x2+4x+3=0 The first step is to factorise. To do this you need to find a pair of factors of 3 that add together to make 4. I recommend listing the factors of 3 to start with. Don't forget the negatives! 1 and 3 (add to 4) -1 and -3 (add to -4) So now we have (x+1)(x+3)=0 The only way you can get 0 when you multiply two numbers together is if one of those numbers is 0. Therefore we set each of the brackets equal to 0 and solve. x+1=0 x=-1 x+3=0 x=-3

HD
Answered by Hannah D. Maths tutor

3227 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Work out the value of 5^3-5^2:


Solve the following simultaneous equations: 2y+x=8 , 1+y=2x


The perimeter of a right angled triangle is 105cm. The lengths of its sides are in the ratio of 2:6:7. Work out the area of the triangle.


Question: Factorise the expressions: 1. X^2 - 9 2. 2X^2 - 14X + 24


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning