Solving equations practice questions

To solve a linear equation, collect the unknowns on one side, undo addition or subtraction first, then undo multiplication or division last. For 5x plus 3 equals 3x plus 11, subtract 3x and 3 from both sides to get 2x equals 8, so x equals 4.

Solving an equation means finding the value of the unknown that makes it true. The principle never changes: whatever you do to one side, do to the other, and undo operations in reverse order.

The method, step by step

1. Collect the unknowns. If x appears on both sides, subtract the smaller x term from both.
2. Undo addition first. Move any constant away from the x term.
3. Undo multiplication last. Divide by whatever multiplies x.
4. Substitute to check. Put your answer back into the original equation.

Worked example

Common mistakes

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