Math · Algebra & word problems
Solving Linear Equations
Estimated time includes reading and one quiz. Take the time you need.
Start here: key ideas
- An equation states that two expressions are equal.
- Use the same valid operation on both sides.
- Simplify each side before isolating the variable.
- Substitution checks the original equation.
What you’ll be able to do
- Preserve equality with inverse operations.
- Solve one-step and multi-step equations.
- Verify by substitution.
Treat an equation as a balance: change both sides equally until the variable stands alone.
Optional review
If you’d like to review the basics, visit Expressions and Order of Operations. You can start this lesson without completing those first.
Equality as a balance
An equation states that two expressions have equal value. A solution makes that statement true. Equality behaves like a balanced scale: adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing both sides by the same nonzero value preserves balance. Inverse operations undo one another, such as +7 and −7.
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