Solving 2-Step Inequalities

A 2-step inequality is an inequality that requires two operations to isolate the variable. For example, $$2x + 3 < 7$$ requires subtracting 3 and then dividing by 2.

The inequality sign flips. For example, if you have $$-2x > 4$$ and divide by -2, it becomes $$x < -2$$ .

$$x < 5$$ .

It represents all numbers less than or equal to 3, shown with a closed circle at 3 and shading to the left.

You use an open circle at -2 and shade to the right.

@@u le 14@@.

An open circle indicates that the number is not included in the solution (e.g., $$x > 3$$ ).

A closed circle indicates that the number is included in the solution (e.g., @@x le 3@@).

The graph shows a closed circle at -2 with shading to the left.

@@x le 2@@.