Selecting a suitable method
Selecting a suitable method means choosing factorisation, completing the square, or the quadratic formula depending on the form of the equation.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
Not every quadratic should be solved in the same way. Neat factor pairs usually suggest factorisation, while difficult coefficients often make the quadratic formula the safest choice.
Example
x^2 + 11x + 24 = 0 is easy by factorisation, but 3x^2 - 2x + 7 = 0 is better handled by the formula.
Simple analogy
Easy factors first, formula when needed.
Common confusion
Students sometimes force factorisation even when the numbers are not neat and waste time.
Exam tip
If you cannot see a clean factor pair quickly, move to the quadratic formula instead of guessing.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of selecting a suitable method in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define selecting a suitable method and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain selecting a suitable method, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
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