I don't know how to solve x^2-2x-3, could someone help with the steps, but don't give me the answer?
x2 - 2x - 3 = 0
You can solve for x with the quadratic formula as Guest said, or you can factor the expression on the left side. To factor it.....you need two numbers that add to -2 and multiply to -3 .
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Here's an example that might help without giving away the answer.
x2 - 6x + 8 = 0
What two numbers add to -6 and multiply to 8 ? → -4 and -2
So, we can factor the left side like this....
(x - 4)(x - 2) = 0
Now set each factor equal to zero and solve for x .
x - 4 = 0 x - 2 = 0
x = 4 or x = 2
So x = 4 causes this expression to equal zero, and also x = 2 causes the expression to equal zero.