Algebra Calculator

Q: How do I solve 2x + 3 = 11?

Pick Linear, enter a=2, b=3, c=11. The tool subtracts 3 from both sides, divides by 2, and shows x = 4 with the check step.

Q: What does the discriminant tell me?

It predicts the roots before solving: positive means two real roots, zero means one repeated root, negative means two complex roots. The tool computes and interprets it for you.

Q: Can it handle complex roots?

Yes. When the discriminant is negative, the solution is shown in a + bi form instead of an error.

Q: Why does my system have no unique solution?

When the determinant is zero the two lines are parallel (no solution) or identical (infinite solutions). The tool detects this and explains which case applies.

Q: Are the steps reliable for homework?

The arithmetic follows the standard methods taught in school and each answer is verified by substitution. Still, understand the steps rather than copying blindly.

Solve algebra equations with full working shown. Linear equations, quadratics with the discriminant, and two-variable systems, each with step-by-step solutions. Free, instant, no sign-up.

Equation solver

Pick a type, enter the coefficients, and see every step.

Equation type

Solution

What it solves

Linear equations of the form ax + b = c, including the edge cases of no solution and infinite solutions. Quadratic equations ax^2 + bx + c = 0 with the discriminant computed and both real and complex roots handled. Systems of two equations in x and y solved with Cramer's rule.

Every step is shown with the substitution checked at the end, so you can follow the working, not just copy the answer.

Reading the discriminant

For quadratics, the discriminant D = b^2 − 4ac tells you the story before you solve: D > 0 means two distinct real roots, D = 0 means one repeated root, and D < 0 means two complex roots involving i.

If a = 0 the equation is not quadratic at all, and the tool says so instead of dividing by zero.