Completing the Square Calculator

Convert ax² + bx + c into vertex form and solve step-by-step.

📘 About the Completing the Square Calculator

This calculator converts a quadratic expression in standard form ax² + bx + c into vertex form using the completing the square method. It also finds the vertex, axis of symmetry, discriminant, and real or complex roots instantly.

🔁 Converts to Vertex Form

Automatically rewrites:

ax² + bx + c

into:

a(x − h)² + k

This makes it easy to identify the vertex and graph the parabola.

📍 Finds Key Quadratic Properties

  • Vertex (h, k)
  • Axis of Symmetry
  • Discriminant (b² − 4ac)
  • Nature of Roots

Perfect for algebra homework and exam preparation.

🧮 Real & Complex Roots Mode

Choose between:

  • Real Roots Only
  • Complex Roots (when discriminant < 0)

The calculator automatically detects whether roots are real or imaginary.

📖 Step-by-Step Explanation

Enable “Show Step-by-Step” to see:

  • Divide by coefficient a
  • Move constant term
  • Add (b / 2a)²
  • Rewrite as perfect square
  • Solve using ±√

Great for understanding the completing the square method.

⚙️ How the Calculator Works

1️⃣ Enter the coefficients a, b, and c from your quadratic equation.

2️⃣ The calculator computes:

  • Vertex using h = −b / 2a
  • k value using k = c − (b² / 4a)
  • Discriminant using D = b² − 4ac

3️⃣ It rewrites the equation into vertex form:

a(x − h)² + k

4️⃣ Depending on the discriminant:

  • D > 0 → Two real roots
  • D = 0 → One real root
  • D < 0 → Complex roots (if enabled)

📌 Example

If you enter:

a = 1, b = 6, c = 5

The calculator converts:

x² + 6x + 5

Into vertex form:

(x + 3)² − 4

Vertex: (−3, −4)
Roots: −1 and −5

Frequently Asked Questions About the
Completing the Square Calculator

Everything you need to know about converting quadratic equations into vertex form and finding roots step-by-step.

What does this Completing the Square Calculator do?

It converts a quadratic equation in standard form (ax² + bx + c) into vertex form using the completing the square method. It also calculates the vertex, axis of symmetry, discriminant, and roots.

What is vertex form?

Vertex form is written as a(x − h)² + k, where (h, k) represents the vertex of the parabola. This form makes graphing and analyzing quadratic functions easier.

What happens if coefficient “a” is zero?

If a = 0, the equation is no longer quadratic. The calculator will display an error because completing the square only applies to quadratic equations.

How does the calculator find the vertex?

It uses the formula h = −b / 2a and k = c − (b² / 4a). The vertex is then displayed as (h, k).

What is the discriminant and why is it important?

The discriminant is calculated using D = b² − 4ac. It determines the nature of the roots: D > 0 → Two real roots, D = 0 → One real root, D < 0 → Complex roots.

Can this calculator find complex roots?

Yes. If the discriminant is negative, select “Complex Roots” mode and the calculator will display the roots in the form a ± bi.

Does it show step-by-step solutions?

Yes. Simply check the “Show Step-by-Step” option to see how the equation is divided, adjusted, converted into a perfect square, and solved.

What does the precision option do?

The precision dropdown lets you choose how many decimal places the results should display, from 1 to 10 decimal places.

Is this calculator free to use?

Yes! The calculator is completely free and works instantly without registration or downloads.

Can I use this calculator on mobile devices?

Absolutely. The calculator is fully responsive and works smoothly on smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers.

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