How to Solve Basic One-Step Equations: Simple Examples

Solving one-step equations can be simple and straightforward, allowing you to quickly find the answers to even the most complex math problems. This example will help you to understand how to solve one-step equations with ease.

Mastering the Basics: How to Solve One Step Equations with Addition and Subtraction 

Solving one-step equations using addition and subtraction can seem challenging, but with the right guidance ou can quickly understand the basics and get started in no time! In this guide, we'll provide examples and helpful tips for solving equations with addition or subtraction.

Understand the Equation Structure and Signs.

Before you can dive into the equations, it’s important to understand the structure of the equations and their components. One-step equations addition and subtraction equations contain two parts, a variable expression, which is represented by a letter and a number, and another number on the other side of the equals sign. The sign will determine how you can use subtraction or addition to solve your equation.

Apply Inverse Operations to Isolate the Variable.

To isolate the variable use the inverse operation. For example, if you have addition in the equation, you will use subtraction to cancel or vice-versa. Remember that when applying inverse operations, what is done to one side must be done to the other for fairness.

Double-Check Your Answer by Substituting It into the Original Equation.

After you solve the equation and get your answer, it’s important to double-check it by substituting the answer into the original equation. Doing this essentially proves if your answer is correct. If after replacing the variable with its value, all terms are cancelled out and you're left with an equation that evaluates to true, then that’s a good indicator that you have found the correct solution to your one step equation!

This is part of a collection of math examples that show how to solve one-step equations that include addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

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