Complete the square to transform the quadratic equation into the form (x – p)2 = q.

x2 - 12x - 5 = 7

A) (x - 36)2 = 9
C) (x - 36)2 = -9
D) (x - 6)2 = -48

Step-by-step explanation:

To complete the square, begin by separating the x terms from the constants by moving the constants to the other side of the equals sign:

Now we can complete the square.  Take half the linear term, square it, and add it to both sides.  Our linear term is 12.  Half of 12 is 6, and 6 squared is 36.  We add 36 to both sides:

In the process of completing the square we created a perfect square binomial.  I will state that binomial along with simplifying the right side of the equation:

That's the form you need it in.  I have a feeling that the B choice you left out is the one you want!