Solving Multistep Equations

Front

What is a multistep equation?

Back

A multistep equation is an equation that requires more than one step to solve, often involving operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Front

How do you isolate a variable in an equation?

Back

To isolate a variable, perform inverse operations to both sides of the equation until the variable is alone on one side.

Front

What is the first step in solving the equation 6 - 3a = 21?

Back

The first step is to subtract 6 from both sides to simplify the equation.

Front

Solve for a: 6 - 3a = 21

Back

a = -5

Front

What does it mean to solve for a variable?

Back

To solve for a variable means to find the value of that variable that makes the equation true.

Front

How do you check your solution for an equation?

Back

To check your solution, substitute the value back into the original equation to see if both sides are equal.

Front

Solve for a: 20 = 2 - a

Back

a = -18

Front

What is the distributive property?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac, allowing you to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside a set of parentheses.

Front

Solve for x: 4 = 2(x + 3)

Back

x = -1

Front

What is the purpose of combining like terms in an equation?

Back

Combining like terms simplifies the equation, making it easier to solve.