Explanation and Free Practice Resources
Verification by substitution means replacing a variable with a proposed value everywhere it occurs, evaluating both sides of the equation, and determining whether the resulting equality is true. It distinguishes a value that satisfies the entire equation from one that only makes part of an expression appear correct, supporting reliable algebraic reasoning with one-variable equations involving whole numbers, integers, fractions, and decimals; systems, identities, and advanced extraneous-solution analysis are not included.
On this page:
To verify whether a proposed value solves an equation:
Example: Check whether is a solution to
Substitute for :
Evaluate the left side:
The equation becomes
This statement is true, so is a solution to the equation.
Click a topic below to practice the foundational skills you'll need, learn the steps, or master this skill
Earned ?
Print this free 'Verify algebraic solutions by substitution' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
These adaptive units introduce, teach, or reinforce this skill (Verify algebraic solutions by substitution) through scaffolded problems that grow in difficulty as concepts are understood.