1. Solving Linear Equations – Part 2 A Linear Equation in One Variable is any equation that can be written in the form It is assumed that you have already viewed Part 1 and know how to solve an equation of this form. Our goal with the more difficult linear equations is to write them in the above form and then complete the solution as in Part 1.

2. Example 1 The first step is to combine the two variable terms on the left hand side. Let’s eliminate the variable x on the right side. To do this, add the opposite, or –x, to both sides. Solve

3. Now solve as shown in Part 1.

4. Let’s check our solution: Substitute -2 for x …

5. Example 2 Simplify each side. Solve

6. Combine the variable terms.

7. Isolate the x.

8. SUMMARY To solve a linear equation: 1) Simplify both sides of the equation. 2) Combine the variable terms. 3) The equation is now in the form Isolate the x: a)Add the opposite of b to both sides. b)Divide both sides by a.