Completing the Square (AQA A-Level Mathematics): Flashcards

A squared bracket, e.g., $(x+3)^2$

Half the coefficient of $x$

$(x + 3)^2 - 9$

$(x + 6)^2 - 36$

Factor out $a$ to get $x^2$ term with coefficient 1

$2(x^2 + 6x) - 1$

The turning point (max/min point)

Value that makes bracket equal zero

The constant term $b$

$x =$ value that makes bracket zero