Solving Linear Equations in 1 Variable
- himathsolver
- Sep 11, 2024
- 1 min read
Goal
Find the value of a variable
How to Solve Linear Equation in 1 Variable
Situation 1: Simply Isolate x
If 5x + 1 = 6, what is the value of x?
Situation 2: Combine Like Terms
Formula: ax ± bx = (a ± b)x
If 3x - 11 = 8 - 2x, what is the value of x?
Situation 3: Distribute Coefficient
Formula: a(bx ± c) = abx ± ac
If 2(x - 4) = 12, what is the value of x?
How to Handle Linear Equation with Fractions/Negative Numbers
Situation 1: Fraction Coefficients
Method: If only the coefficient is a fraction, leave it until the final step to isolate x.
If (1/4)x + 3 = 19, what is the value of x?
Situation 2: Multiple Fractions
Method: Clear fractions by multiplying through by the least common denominator (LCD).
Solve (2/3)x + (3/4) = (4/5)
Situation 3: Negative Numbers
Method: Negative × Negative = Positive, Positive × Negative = Negative
If -3(x - 6) = 9, what is the value of x?
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