Solving Simple Equations Having the Variable on one side
When solving equations where variables appear on one side only, we follow these key principles:
For example: Let's solve 3x + 5 = 20
Step 1: Move all constant terms to the
3x =
Step 2: Get the variable term alone by dividing both sides by its coefficient: x = 15 ÷ 3 i.e. x =
Step 3: Verify the solution by substituting back into the original equation: 3(5) + 5 = 20 i.e. 15 + 5 =
Let's try another example: 4x - 7 = 17
Step 1: Transpose constant terms: 4x = 17 + 7 i.e. 4x =
(6) Step 2: Isolate the variable: x = 24 ÷ 4 i.e. x =
(7) Step 3: Verify: 4(6) - 7 = 17 i.e. 24 - 7 =
Key Points to Remember:
Always keep the equation balanced by performing the same operation on both sides
Verify your answer by substituting back into the original equation
When moving terms across the = sign:
Addition becomes subtraction
Subtraction becomes addition
Multiplication becomes division
Division becomes multiplication