Edexcel IGCSE Maths (4MA1) · Unit 3: Equations & Sequences
Completing the Square questions with full solutions for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics A (4MA1), Higher tier. Read the 2 worked examples first, then try the 3 exam-style questions yourself and check your working against the mark scheme.
Write \(x^2+14x+20\) in the form \((x+p)^2+q\).
Answer: \((x+7)^2-29\)
Write \(3x^2+12x-5\) in the form \(a(x+b)^2+c\).
Answer: \(3(x+2)^2-17\)
Try each question before you open the answer. The mark schemes use Edexcel-style marks: M for method, A for accuracy (after the method mark), B for an independent result.
Write \(x^2+6x+11\) in the form \((x+p)^2+q\).
Answer: \((x+3)^2+2\)
Write \(x^2+5x-2\) in the form \((x+p)^2+q\).
Answer: \(\left(x+\tfrac{5}{2}\right)^2-\tfrac{33}{4}\)
Find the minimum value of \(x^2+3x+5\) and the value of \(x\) at which it occurs.
Answer: Minimum value \(\tfrac{11}{4}\) when \(x=-\tfrac{3}{2}\)
Every question and worked example here is original, written for IGCSE Math Revision rather than copied from Pearson papers, and each answer was re-solved independently before publishing.
Either Higher tier paper, 1H or 2H, can test completing the square: both cover the whole Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics A (4MA1) specification and both allow a calculator. Show your method, because most marks are for working.
In the IGCSE student hub: Unit 3 (Equations & Sequences) has more exam-style questions on this topic, each with a mark scheme. Practice starts with a 7-day free trial; the worked examples and questions on this page are free.
IGCSE Math Revision