What you are doing
To solve is to find value(s) that make the equation true. Add, subtract, multiply, or divide on both sides each step so equality is preserved, until the unknown is alone on one side.
Balance
Both sides of an equation are equal in value. If you add 5 to the left only, they are no longer equal. Add 5 to both, and they stay equal.
Example
x + 7 = 15. Subtract 7 from both sides: x = 8. Check: 8 + 7 = 15.
Check your steps
Mistakes
- Changing one side and forgetting the other.
- Dividing by something that could be zero without checking.
Use the calculator
FAQ
- Why both sides?
Equality means two expressions have the same value; keep them equal after each step.