Skill: Solve simple two-step equations

Explanation and Free Practice Resources

A two-step equation represents a relationship in which a variable is multiplied or divided and then increased or decreased, such as $3x+5=17$ or $x/4-2=6$ ; solving means applying inverse operations in reverse order while preserving equality, then checking that the solution satisfies the original equation. The focus is on one-variable equations with rational numbers and straightforward linear structure, not variables on both sides, equations requiring several operations, or nonlinear equations.

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Detailed Explanation: Solve simple two-step equations

To solve a two-step equation, undo the operations in reverse order while keeping both sides equal.

Example:

3x+5=17

Undo the addition of 5 by subtracting 5 from both sides:

3x+5-5=17-5

3x=12

Undo the multiplication by 3 by dividing both sides by 3:

\frac{3x}{3}=\frac{12}{3}

x=4

Check your answer by replacing $x$ with $4$ in the original equation:

3(4)+5=12+5=17

The equation is true, so the solution is:

\boxed{x=4}

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Two-Step Equation - Basic Operations - Solve

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