How to Write Quadratic Equations in Vertex Form and Standard Form
Learn how to write quadratic equations using vertex form from a vertex, or standard form from 3 points. Let’s get started! 🚀

Video Lesson
Watch and learn the basics

Flashcards
Review key concepts visually
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🛎️ Forms of Quadratic Equations
- Quadratics can be written in vertex form or general form.
- Use vertex form when you know the vertex, and general form when you know points on the parabola.
🛎️ Using the Vertex Form
- If the vertex is (2, 3), start with y = a(x − 2)² + 3.
- Substitute the point (3, 1) to make an equation and find the value of a.
🛎️ Using the General Form
- Substitute three known points to make three equations.
- Solve the equations together using substitution or elimination to find a, b, and c.
🛎️ Applying Quadratics to a Real-Life Situation
- The equation y = −5/9 x² + 5 models the shape of a bridge.
- Substituting x = 1 shows the height is above 4 m, so the truck can drive through.
Practice Questions
Test your understanding
The vertex of a parabola is at and . What is the quadratic equation in vertex form?
Correct! 🎉 +10 pointsNot quite right
The vertex is at , so the equation starts as . Since , the equation becomes .
The vertex of a parabola is at and . What is the quadratic equation in vertex form?
Correct! 🎉 +10 pointsNot quite right
The vertex is at , so the equation starts as . Since , the quadratic equation is .
Given the vertex of a parabola is and it passes through the point , what is the quadratic equation in vertex form?
Correct! 🎉 +20 pointsNot quite right
Start with the vertex , so the equation is . Substituting and gives , so . Therefore, the equation is .
Given the vertex of a parabola is and it passes through the point , what is the quadratic equation in vertex form?
Correct! 🎉 +20 pointsNot quite right
Using the vertex , the equation is . Substituting the point gives , so . Thus, the equation is .
Given the vertex of a parabola is and it passes through the point , what is the quadratic equation in vertex form?
Correct! 🎉 +20 pointsNot quite right
Start with the vertex , so the equation is . Substituting the point gives , so . Therefore, the equation is .
Given three points on a parabola: , , and , what is the quadratic equation in general form?
Correct! 🎉 +30 pointsNot quite right
Substitute the points into the general form . From , . Using gives . Using gives . Solving these equations gives and . Thus, the equation is .
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Interactive Activity
Follow the step-by-step guide to find the equation in vertex form
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