Keep the equation balanced
An equation is like a balanced scale. Whatever operation you perform on one side must also be performed on the other side. Undo addition or subtraction first, then multiplication or division.
Basic Algebra Solver
Solve a one-variable linear equation in the form ax + b = dx + e, including equations with x on both sides.
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SOLUTION
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Step-by-step work
Example: 3x + 5 = 20
Subtract 5 from both sides to get 3x = 15. Divide both sides by 3 to get x = 5. Substitute 5 to confirm the equation equals 20.
Common mistake
When moving a term, perform the inverse operation on both sides. A term does not simply “change signs” without an operation that keeps the equation balanced.