Solving two-step equations

Front

What is a two-step equation?

Back

A two-step equation is an algebraic equation that requires two operations to solve for the variable.

Front

How do you isolate a variable in a two-step equation?

Back

To isolate a variable, perform the inverse operations in reverse order: first undo addition or subtraction, then undo multiplication or division.

Front

Solve for a: 4a - 7 = 33

Back

a = 10

Front

Solve for a: -3a + 6 = 21

Back

a = -5

Front

Solve for a: 2(3a - 5) + 6a = -22

Back

a = -1

Front

Solve for a: 2 = -3a + 8

Back

a = 2

Front

Solve for p: 14p - 8 = 22 + 20p

Back

p = -5

Front

What is the first step to solve the equation 4a - 7 = 33?

Back

Add 7 to both sides to get 4a = 40.

Front

What is the second step to solve the equation 4a = 40?

Back

Divide both sides by 4 to get a = 10.

Front

What does it mean to perform the inverse operation?

Back

An inverse operation reverses the effect of the original operation, such as addition and subtraction or multiplication and division.