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Solving Two-Step Equations

In this lesson, we will look at solving equations that require two steps. In order to solve two-step equations, we need to work backwards with regards to the order of operations. We would perform the addition & subtraction before multiplication & division.

 

 

In the equation 3x – 2 = 16, notice that the variable is being multiplied and has a term being subtracted. To isolate the variable, we need to add 2 to both sides and then divide both sides by 3.

Example:

Solve 3x – 2 = 16

Solution:

3x – 2 = 16

3x – 2 + 2 = 16 + 2 (add 2 to both sides)

3x = 18 (simplify)

x = 6 (divide both sides by 3)

Check:

3x – 2 = 16

3 • 6 – 2 = 16 (Substitute x = 6 into the original equation)

 

 

Consider the equation, . To isolate the variable, we need to subtract 2 from both sides and then multiply both sides by 4.

Example:

Solve

 

Solution:

 

Check:

 

 

The following videos show more examples of solving two-step equations.

 

 

 

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