Solving problems with variables on each side

Question

I am in 9th grade, and am having trouble with solving problems with variables on each side. ( for example,

3(x-2)=9x ) I don't understand it because there is no order in which to solve the equation, so i'm just guessing at what to start with. I have a test coming up, and really need help. I just need an order in which to solve it that I can use for each equation. Thank you!

Answer 1

A General Procedure for solving equatios (linear)

Simplify both sides of the equation by using PEMDAS

Combine like term on each side of the equation

Subtract/Add to both sides of the equation so variables are on one side and constants are on the other (your choice)

Multiply/Divide so that the coefficient on the varialbe is 1.

Answer 2

Hi Dahlia!

The way to do these kind of problems is always the same.

1st - you need to put all the "x" on one side and numbers on the other.

Remember - when you move a number to the other side the rules are:

1. Positive to Negative
2. Negative to Positive
3. Multiplying to Dividing
4. Dividing to Multiplying

2nd - just isolate the "x" and solved!

3rd - check your answer ;)

3(x-2)=9x

1st --> 3x - 6 = 9x --> 3x - 9x = 6 --> - 6x = 6

2nd --> x = 6 / (-6) --> x = -1

3rd --> 3 (-1-2) = 9·(-1) --> 3·(-3) = 9 · (-1) --> - 9 = - 9

Hope your test goes well! :)

Answer 3