Solving Multistep Equations with Variables on Both Sides

What is the first step in solving multi-step equations with variables on both sides?

• Isolate the variable on the right side

• Combine like terms using inverse operations

• Use the distributive property

• Combine constants on both sides

In the first example, what is the result of combining 5x and -3x?

• 8x

• 2x

• 0

• 3x

What operation is used to eliminate the parentheses in the second example?

• Subtraction

• Addition

• Division

• Distributive property

In the second example, what is the result of distributing 3 through (1 - 2k)?

• 3 + 2k

• 3 - 2k

• 3 + 6k

• 3 - 6k

What is the next step after combining like terms in the second example?

• Add the constants on both sides

• Multiply by the coefficient of the variable

• Divide by the coefficient of the variable

• Subtract the constants on both sides

In the third example, what is the understood coefficient when no number is in front of the parentheses?

• 0

• -1

• 1

• 2

What is the result of distributing -1 through (x + 3) in the third example?

• x - 3

• -x + 3

• x + 3

• -x - 3

In the third example, what is the result of combining 5 and -3?

• 0

• 2

• 8

• -2

Why is it often easier to work with positive numbers when combining like terms?

• It makes the equation shorter

• It reduces the number of steps

• It simplifies the constants

• It minimizes the chance of errors

What is the final value of x in the third example?

• 2

• 4

• 1

• 3