SOLUTION: Quadratic equations can be solved by graphing, using the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring. What are the pros and cons of each of these methods? When might ea
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Question 472063: Quadratic equations can be solved by graphing, using the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring. What are the pros and cons of each of these methods? When might each method be most appropriate? Which method do you prefer? Why?
Answer by richard1234(7193) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Graphing: Pros - approximate solution, able to determine how many solutions a quadratic has. Cons - can't obtain exact solutions
Quadratic formula: Pros - always works. Cons - might take some arithmetic and bashing.
Completing the square (used to derive quadratic formula btw): Pros - also works for every quadratic. Cons - have to divide the x term by 2, then square it...might not be useful for weird coefficients.
Factoring: Pros - allows for an easy method of finding the solutions. Cons - most polynomials cannot be factored easily, and factoring sometimes assumes you already know the zeros.
Whichever method is best is rather subjective. For me, I would first try factoring, if I cannot factor the quadratic easily I will head straight to the quadratic formula.
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