Finding the complex square roots of a complex number without a calculator 
The complex number $z$ is given by $z = -1 + (4 \sqrt{3})i$

The question asks you to find the two complex roots of this number in the form $z = a + bi$ where $a$ and $b$ are real and exact without using a calculator.
So far I have attempted to use the pattern $z = (a+bi)^2$, and the subsequent expansion $z = a^2 + 2abi - b^2$. Equating $a^2 - b^2 = -1$, and $2abi = (4\sqrt{3})i$, but have not been able to find $a$ and $b$ through simultaneous equations.
How can I find $a$ and $b$ without a calculator?

The second equation can be written $ab=2\sqrt{3}$ which gives $b = \frac{2\sqrt{3}}{a}$. If we substitute back into the first equation we get $a^2 - \frac{12}{a^2} = -1 $. Multiplying both sides by $a^2$ gives $a^4 - 12 = - a^2$. This can be written as $a^4 + a^2 - 12 = 0$ which is a quadratic equation solvable for $a^2$.
