How to calculate square root
ⁿ√x = x^(1/n)
Worked example. Square root: 12.
Example inputs — Number: 144; Root (2 = square, 3 = cube): 2. Starting values are illustrative.
Perfect root
From George Guju, founder of Calculyn · Educational calculator guidance, not professional advice.
How it works
The nth root of a number is the value that, multiplied by itself n times, gives the number.
Assumptions & limitations
- Results are rounded for display.
Formula and assumptions reviewed October 2026 by the Calculyn team. How we build our calculators
Frequently asked questions
Can you take the cube root of a negative number?
Yes. The cube root of −27 is −3. Even roots (square, 4th) of negatives aren't real numbers.