The document provides 4 steps for solving equations for a variable: [1] Combine like terms, [2] Isolate the terms containing the variable, [3] Isolate the variable you wish to solve for, [4] Substitute your answer into the original equation and show that both sides are equal. An example problem is shown demonstrating each step: 5x + 9 - 2x + 14 = 2x - 11 + 7 + 10x.

1. Algebra
Solving for x

2. Four Simple Steps

4. Combine Like Terms
Example:
3x - 4 + 5x = 14 - x
(3x + 5x) - 4 = 14 - x
x + 8x - 4 = 14 - x + x
9x - 4 = 14

6. Isolate the Terms that
Contain the Variable
Example:
9x – 4 = 14
9x - 4 + 4 = 14 + 4
9x = 18

8. Isolate the Variable You Wish
to Solve
9x = 18
9x / 9 = 18 / 9
x=2

10. Substitute Your Answer into
the Original Equation
Example:
3x - 4 + 5x = 14 - x
3(2) - 4 + 5(2) = 14 - (2)
6 - 4 + 10 = 12
2 + 10 = 12
12 = 12

11. Practice Problem
5x + 9 - 2x + 14 = 2x - 11 + 7 + 10x

12. (5x - 2x) + (9 + 14) = (2x + 10x) + (7 - 11)
3x + 23 = 12x - 4

13. 3x + 23 = 12x - 4
27 = 9x

14. 27 = 9x
3=x

15. 5x + 9 – 2x + 14 = 2x - 11 + 7 + 10x
5(3) + 9 - 2(3) + 14 = 2(3) - 11 + 7 + 10(3)
15 + 9 - 6 + 14 = 6 - 11 + 7 + 30
32 = 32