Step-by-step equation solver

Free client-side Step-by-step equation solver web utility.

Step-by-Step Equation Solver

x² + x + = 0
x + =
Eq 1:  x + y =
Eq 2:  x - y =
Solution & Algebraic Derivation Quadratic Formula
Step 1: Identify the coefficients
a = 2, b = -4, c = -6
The standard form of a quadratic equation is ax² + bx + c = 0.
Step 2: Calculate the discriminant (Δ = b² - 4ac)
Δ = (-4)² - 4(2)(-6) = 16 + 48 = 64
Since Δ > 0, the equation has two distinct real roots. √64 = 8.
Step 3: Apply the quadratic formula
x = (-b ± √Δ) / 2a = (-(-4) ± 8) / (2 · 2) = (4 ± 8) / 4
Evaluate both the plus and minus branches to find both solutions.
Step 4: Compute individual roots
x₁ = (4 + 8) / 4 = 12 / 4 = 3
x₂ = (4 - 8) / 4 = -4 / 4 = -1
Final Answer: x₁ = 3, x₂ = -1

About this tool

How to use it

  1. Select the equation type: Quadratic ($ax^2 + bx + c = 0$), Linear ($ax + b = c$), or System of 2 Equations.
  2. Enter the numerical coefficients into the designated equation fields.
  3. Click 'Solve with Steps' to inspect the detailed analytical derivation.
  4. Follow each intermediate step including discriminant verification, quadratic formula substitution, and simplified solutions.

Why it matters

Understanding algebra requires seeing how formulas are applied rather than simply getting a final answer. Step-by-step breakdowns help students identify calculation errors, prepare for exams, and grasp foundational algebraic concepts.

When to use it

Use this tool when checking algebra homework, studying for SAT/ACT math sections, verifying engineering formulas, or tutoring middle and high school students.

Common questions

What happens if a quadratic equation has complex (imaginary) roots?

When the discriminant (b^2 - 4ac) is negative, the solver indicates that no real roots exist and provides the exact complex conjugates using the imaginary unit i.

Can it solve systems with infinite or no solutions?

Yes. When solving 2x2 systems, the tool evaluates the matrix determinant. If the determinant is 0, it distinguishes between parallel lines (no solution) and coincident lines (infinitely many solutions).

Does this tool work completely offline?

Yes. All algebraic operations, factoring, and step generation execute entirely in client-side JavaScript within your browser.