How to solve linear equation step by step

A linear equation is an equation that contains a variable raised to the power of one. Linear equations are one of the most common problems in algebra.

Example equation:

2x − 4 = 10

To solve this equation, we must isolate the variable x.

Step 1: Remove the constant

Add 4 to both sides of the equation.

2x − 4 + 4 = 10 + 4

This simplifies to:

2x = 14

Step 2: Divide both sides

Divide both sides by 2.

x = 14 ÷ 2

Step 3: Simplify

x = 7

The solution to the equation is x = 7.

Practice Problem

Solve this equation:

3x + 5 = 20

Step 1: Subtract 5

3x = 15

Step 2: Divide by 3

x = 5

Quick Tip

Always isolate the variable using inverse operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

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