Wize High School Algebra II Textbook (Common Core) > Quadratic Equations & Complex Numbers
Completing the Square ()

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Completing the Square
Given a quadratic equation in standard form , we often want to rewrite it in vertex form . This process is called completing the square.
Steps for Completing the Square for
- Focus on the first 2 terms:
- Add and subtract :
- Rewrite (factor) the first 3 terms as a perfect square:
- Simplify the constant terms:
Write it Down
Short-cut Formula for Completing the Square for :

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Example: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square.
1. Focus on the first 2 terms:
2. Add and subtract :
- In our equation
3. Rewrite (factor) the first 3 terms as a perfect square:
4. Simplify the constant terms:
So, by completing the square, we get the vertex form equation
Practice: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square. Then determine the vertex of this quadratic relation.
Practice: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square. Then, graph this quadratic relation.
Practice: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square. Then, determine the vertex and y-intercept of this quadratic relation.
Practice: Completing the Square
Write the following in vertex form by completing the square.
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)

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Completing the Square
Given a quadratic equation in standard form , we often want to rewrite it in vertex form . This process is called completing the square.
Steps for Completing the Square for
- Factor out of the first 2 terms:
- Add and subtract :
- Rewrite (factor) the first 3 terms as a perfect square:
- Multiply into the brackets:
- Simplify the constant terms:
Write it Down
Short-cut Formula for Completing the Square for :

0:00 / 0:00
Example: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square.
1. Factor out of the first 2 terms:
2. Add and subtract :
3. Rewrite (factor) the first 3 terms as a perfect square:
4. Multiply into the brackets:
5. Simplify the constant terms:
Practice: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square.
Practice: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square. Then, determine the vertex of this quadratic relation.
Practice: Completing the Square
Write in vertex form by completing the square. Then state the vertex and graph this quadratic relation.
Practice: Completing the Square
Write the following in vertex form by completing the square.
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)