Solve equations step by step
The tool solves the two kinds of equations students meet most in middle and high school, and shows the full method — not just the answer.
Linear equation: ax + b = c
Move b across to get ax = c − b, then divide by a: x = (c − b) / a. Example: 2x + 3 = 11 → 2x = 8 → x = 4. If a = 0 there is either no solution or infinitely many.
Quadratic equation: ax² + bx + c = 0
Compute the discriminant Δ = b² − 4ac:
- Δ > 0: two roots x₁ = (−b − √Δ) / 2a and x₂ = (−b + √Δ) / 2a.
- Δ = 0: one repeated root x = −b / 2a.
- Δ < 0: no real roots; the tool shows the two complex roots.
Example: x² − 5x + 6 = 0 → Δ = 1 → x₁ = 2, x₂ = 3.
How to use it
- Choose the equation type.
- Enter a, b and c (negative or decimal values are fine).
- Read the solution and steps, and copy them if you like.
Tip: check your answer by substituting x back into the original equation.