2-Phase Simplex Method Calculator: What It Is & How to Use It

The 2-phase simplex method is required when your LP problem contains constraints with ≥ or = relations — situations where you can’t start with an obvious basic feasible solution.

What is the 2-phase method?

It splits solving into two phases:

• Phase 1: Introduce artificial variables and minimize their sum. If the minimum is 0, a feasible basis exists.
• Phase 2: Drop artificials and run the standard simplex on the original objective.

Using a 2-phase calculator

A good 2-phase simplex calculator handles both phases automatically — you just enter the LP, and it shows you:

1. The augmented problem with artificials
2. Phase 1 iterations
3. The transition to Phase 2
4. Final optimal tableau