Section 3.4: Solving Equations
with Variables on Both Sides
Int. Math I
Things to remember when solving
equations with the variable on both
sides:
1. Distribute right away if necessary!!!
2. Combine like terms on the same side of the equation if
necessary!!!
3. Always start by getting the variable on the same side!!!
- Add or subtract the term with the variable from both sides of
the equation.
- When doing this you can only add or subtract like terms!!!
4. Use inverse operations to solve for the variable!!!
5. Always multiply or divide as the last step!!!
Examples to discuss: Don’t have to
distribute or combine like terms!!!
Solve each equation. Remember get the
variable on the same side of the equation!!!
1. 7x + 19 = -2x + 55
2. 80 – 9y = 6y
More examples to discuss: You
have to combine like terms 1st!!!
Solve each equation. Remember to combine
like terms 1st!!!
1. 3x – 10 + 4x = 5x – 7
More examples:
Solve each equation.
1. 15 – 2y = 3y
2. r – 2 + 3r = 6 + 5r
3. 34 – 3x = 14x
4. –x + 6 – 5x = 14 – 2x
Try these problems:
Solve each equation.
1. 5y – 2 = y + 10
2. 6x + 3 = 8 + 7x + 2x