Solving for a Variable

Combining Variables

Example 9

Solve 5 + 4x - 7 = 4x - 2 - x

Step 1. Combine like terms that are on the same side of the equation.

Solve_ex9_1

Step 2. Use inverse functions to move like terms to the same side of the equation. Subtract 3x from the resulting equation.

Solve_ex9_2

Step 3. Add 2 to both sides of the resulting equation.

Solve_ex9_3

Step 4. Check the solution.


Solve_ex9_4