Solve for 1 Variable

CONCEPTS

Method

1) Combine like terms

2) Isolate term being solved for on one side of the equation (use addition/subtraction)

3) Eliminate coefficients & solve (use multiplication/division)

EXAMPLES

Simplify: 2x + 10 = –x + 1

3x + 9 = 0 (add/subtract)

3x = 9 (multiply/divide)

x = 9/3 = 3

PRACTICE PROBLEMS

Question 1 Solve for x: 5x + 3 + 9x = x + 2

-- Answer -- x = 1/3

15x = 5, x = 1/3

Question 2 Solve for x: 3/5 * x + 10 = 17

-- Answer -- 35 / 3

3/5x = 7, x = 35/3

ACT PRACTICE PROBLEMS