Polynomial Evaluator

Evaluate polynomial p(x) = aₙxⁿ + … + a₁x + a₀ at any x. Up to degree 6.

Inputs

Result

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General calculation reads

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How to use this calculator

  • Set non-zero coefficients (use 0 for unused terms).
  • Set x value.
  • Read p(x).

About this calculator

Polynomial evaluation via Horner's method: rewrite p(x) = aₙxⁿ + … + a₀ as nested multiplications: ((aₙx + aₙ₋₁)x + aₙ₋₂)x + …. Cuts the operation count from O(n²) (naive) to O(n) (linear). For p(x) = x³ − 2x² + 5x − 3 at x = 2: ((1·2 − 2)·2 + 5)·2 − 3 = ((0·2 + 5)·2 − 3) = 7. Used everywhere — graphics, signal processing, finance (NPV is a polynomial in 1/(1+r)).

Frequently asked

Why Horner's?+
Fewer multiplications, fewer rounding errors, and O(n) work vs. O(n²) naive. The standard polynomial evaluation algorithm.
Higher than degree 6?+
Same idea — generalize the field set. This calc covers most school + practical work.
Real-world poly use?+
Bezier curves (graphics), low-pass filter design (signal processing), NPV (finance), regression curve fits.
Polynomial vs. exponential growth?+
For large x, exponential always beats any polynomial. But for x near 0-100, polynomials can grow fast (x⁶ at x=10 = 10⁶).
How is this different from quadratic solver?+
Solver finds roots (where p(x) = 0). Evaluator computes p(x) at given x. Inverse problems.

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