Concept · 4 steps · NESA MA4-EQU-C-01

Solving Linear Equations Up to Two Steps

The art of getting x on its own. Once you can undo what's been done to it — step by step, keeping the scales balanced — algebra stops being scary and starts being satisfying.

1Where it comes fromAn equation is a balance scale. Take the same off both sides and watch it stay level. 2How to do itUndo with inverse operations — subtract, then divide — with a generator to lock it in. 3Where it gets trickyThe right order to undo things, and not getting tripped by negatives. 4Out in the wildTurn a word problem into an equation, solve it, then check by substitution.

← This concept rests on

Inverse Operations
Working with Negative Numbers

→ It unlocks

Solving and Verifying Equations by Substitution
Solving Quadratic Equations