Question

What number must you add to complete the square x^2+24x=17

Answer 1

Method

1. Take 1/2 of 24 which is 12

2. Square it which is 144

3. Add that to the left of the equation.

x^2 + 24x + 144 = 17              that is an unbalanced equation. You have to do the same thing to the right hand side.

4. Add 144 to the right.

x^2 + 24x + 144 = 17 + 144

(x + 12)^2 = 161

Conclusion

Add 144 to both sides to complete the square.