Completing
the square is done as follows:
- Write the equation in a way that the
constants are in the right side while the terms with x are on the left.
x^2 – 6x = 5
- Make sure that the coefficient of the x^2
term is 1.
x^2 – 6x = 5
- Adding a term to both sides that will
complete the square in the left side. This is done by dividing the coefficient
of the x term by 2 and squaring it. Note: The same amount should be added to
the right side to balance the equation.
x^2 – 6x + 9 = 5 + 9
(x-3)^2 = 14
Therefore, 9 should be added to both sides to complete the square.
