for y=x^2-6x-11
complete the square
so roots
set y=0
0=x^2-6x-11
group x terms
0=(x^2-6x)-11
take 1/2 of linear coefient (-6) and square it
-6/2=-3, (-3)^2=9
add positive and neative to inside of parenthasees
0=(x^2-6x+9-9)-11
complete square
0=((x-3)^2-9)-11
expand
0=(x-3)^2-9-11
0=(x-3)^2-20
add 20 to both sides
20=(x-3)^2
sqrt both sides
remember positive and negative roots
+/-2√5=x-3
add 3 to both sides
3+/-2√5=x
so
x=3+2√5 and 3-2√5