Start with a quadratic expression in the form (ax^2 + bx + c)
If (a neq 1), factor out (a) from the (x^2) and (x) terms
Move the constant term to the other side if solving an equation
Take half of the coefficient of (x)
Square that half
Add and subtract that square inside the expression, or add it to both sides of the equation
Rewrite the trinomial as a perfect square binomial
Simplify the remaining constant terms
Solve for (x) if needed by taking square roots
Check the solutions if required