Talk:Algebra/Quadratic functions

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Missing a section on completing the square? --DesertFox_59 {X} 16:56, 5 November 2005 (UTC)

I really don't think it's wise to say that the Quadratic Formula should be used in place of completing the square where possible. While the Quadratic Formula may be derived from the process of completing the square, the two are not at all equivalent. Completing the square is a problem-solving method used in other areas of mathematics, such as Calculus, whereas the Quadratic Formula is a problem-solving tool which only gives answers. Encouraging the use of the Quadratic Formula in this way, as the tool of choice, will only make other areas of mathematics more difficult to the beginner. I refer you to Peter Afeld's explanation for a more in-depth explanation - and a much cleaner technique for completing the square (the one on this page would confuse all but mathematicians, I think). --Deriamis 22:41, 25 July 2006 (UTC)