Are there more than one way to solve multi step equations?

1 Answer
Mar 25, 2015

Yes, there are. Although one way may seem easier to many people.

Solve 2x+8=22
Method 1 (Subtract 8, then divide by 2)

2x+8=22
2x=22-8
2x+14
x=14/2 = 7

Method 2 (Divide by 2 first -- I'll multiply by 1/2)

2x+8=22
1/2(2x+8)=1/2(22)

x+4=11

Now subtract 4 from both sides:

x=11-4
x=7

Solve: 3x-5=4
Method 2
3x-5=4
3x=4+5
3x=9
x=9/3
x=3

Method 2
3x-5=4
1/3(3x-5)=1/3(4)

x-5/3=4/3

x=4/3+5/3

x=9/3

x=3