Solving equations with one unknown.

Question

For solving equations with one unknown, how do I know where to start finding the answer of the equation. For example, if I had the question 20−6+4k=2−2k, where would I start solving the equation. Would I start by solving on the left side or the right. I’m not sure which way I do it so that’s why I’m asking this question.

Answer 1

Dear Osc

The best way to figure out this kind of problems is to leave all unknows is just one side (I rather prefer to use the left side).

In your question: 20−6+4k=2−2k

I will do the following +4k + 2k = 2 -20 +6

What I did was to pass all the terms with the unknown "k" at the same side (left) and the numbers without the unknown k to the right side. Also, you have to remember that when you pass terms from one side to the other side you must change the sign of the term as I did.

Then, +4k + 2k = + 6k and 2-20+6 = 8-20 = -12

The value of the unknown k is: +6k = -12

k = -12 / 6 = -2 k = -2