Q&A for How to Solve Quadratic Equations Using the Quadratic Formula

a = 2, b = 1, and c = -300. By the quadratic formula x = {-1 +/- √[1² - (4)(2)(-300)]} / (2)(2) = [-1 +/-√(1 + 2400)] / 4 = (-1 +/- √2401) / 4 = (-1 +/- 49) / 4 = 48/4 or -50/4 = 12 or -12½ = x. As odd as that second value seems, both of those x values do work in the original equation.

If b is negative, in the quadratic formula it becomes -(-b), or +b, meaning you're working with a positive b.

See Complete the Square , Solve Quadratic Equations and Factor Algebraic Equations .

It's your choice, but it's not mandatory to keep it in the plus-minus form. Most teachers and textbooks teach plus-minus, but that all depends on the material taught.