How do I solve x² - x - 4 = 0?

[MrHexG]

Hi,

I am having trouble solving the following equation:

$$x^2-x-4=0$$

I would really appreciate it if anyone could help.

 

[MarkFL]

Hello and welcome to MHB, MrHexG! (Wave)

We ask that our users show their progress (work thus far or thoughts on how to begin) when posting questions. This way our helpers can see where you are stuck or may be going astray and will be able to post the best help possible without potentially making a suggestion which you have already tried, which would waste your time and that of the helper.

Can you post what you have done so far?

 

[HallsofIvy]

Do you know the quadratic formula?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quadratic_formula

 

[MrHexG]

Nope

 

[HallsofIvy]

Then where in the world did you get this problem? You could also solve the equation by "completing the square":
https://www.khanacademy.org/math/al...-quadratic-equations-by-completing-the-square