The ''U'' shaped graph of a quadratic is called a parabola. A quadratic equation has two solutions. Either two distinct real solutions, one double real solution or two imaginary solutions.
All methods start with setting the equation equal to zero.
If you have forgotten how to manipulate fractions, click on Fractions for a review. Almost all precalculus students hate fractions before they renew their love for them. The following step will transform the equation into an equivalent equation without fractions. If you have forgotten what equivalent means, think of a dollar. All of these are equivalent because all have the value of a dollar.