Foundation & Higher

Quadratic equations GCSE questions

Quadratic equations GCSE questions: factorise, formula and “how many solutions”. Designed for Higher, with a few Foundation-friendly items.

Set equal to zero first

If the question is x² + 5x = 14, rearrange to x² + 5x − 14 = 0 before factorising.

Practice questions

Cover the answers and have a go first. Worked solutions are underneath.

Question 1 [2 marks]

Solve x² + 6x + 8 = 0

Question 2 [2 marks]

Solve x² − 4x = 0

Question 3 [1 mark]

Solve x² = 49

Question 4 [2 marks]

Discriminant of x² + 3x + 4. How many real solutions?

Question 5 [3 marks]

Solve x² − 2x − 1 = 0 using the formula, leave as surds

Common mistakes

Answers and working

Q1. x = −2 or x = −4
Q2. x = 0 or x = 4
Q3. x = 7 or x = −7
Q4. 9 − 16 = −7, so none
Q5. x = 1 ± √2

Frequently asked questions

AQA vs Edexcel?

The algebra is the same. Practise the method, then sit papers from your board.

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