Linear Equations

A linear equation by definition is an equation which when graphed produces a straight line. The following are two examples of linear equations with one unknown:

When solving linear equations with one unknown:

Step 1: Place the unknown variables on the left hand side of the equal sign, and the numbers on the right hand side of the equal sign.

Note:

– To move a positive number from one side of the equal sign, to the other, subtract the number from both sides.

– To move a negative number from one side of the equal sign, to the other, add the number to both sides.

– If the coefficient of the unknown variable is multiplying it, divide both sides by the coefficient.

Step 2:  Solve for the unknown variable.

Examples