Learn it
Algebra I builds on the equation skills you know. Simplify both sides, collect variables, then isolate the variable.
Fractions? Multiply every term by the least common denominator to clear them: x/3 + x/4 = 7 → 4x + 3x = 84 → x = 12.
A literal equation has several variables, like a formula. You can solve for any one of them: from A = lw, w = A/l.
Worked examples
Example 1
Solve 2(3x − 4) − x = 17.
- Distribute: 6x − 8 − x = 17
- Combine: 5x − 8 = 17
- 5x = 25, x = 5
Answer: x = 5
Example 2
Solve P = 2l + 2w for w.
- Subtract 2l: P − 2l = 2w
- Divide by 2
Answer: w = (P − 2l)/2
Practice
Try these on paper first, then check your work.
- x/2 + x/5 = 14
- 3 − 4(x + 1) = −13
- Solve d = rt for t
- Solve y = mx + b for x
Show the answer key
- 20
- 3
- t = d/r
- x = (y − b)/m