1. Section 1-3: Solving Equations 8/29/17

2. To solve equations you want to get the variable on one side, and all of the other numbers on the other side.
To do this you use the order of operations “backwards”.

3. Let’s eliminate the smallest variable term.
2(x – 4) = 3x – 7
Distribute and combine like terms on each side. (We have no like terms on each side this time).
2x – 8 = 3x – 7
Let’s eliminate the smallest variable term.
-2x x
– 8 = x –7
Add 7 to both sides.
-1= x

4. If you put the -1 in for the “x”, your equation should be true:
2(x – 4) = 3x – 7
2(-1 – 4) = 3(-1) – 7
2(-5) = -3 – 7
-10 = -10
This means that the solution is correct!

5. Solving equations with more than one variable: Solve for “b” a + b = d c
If it helps, substitute numbers in for the variables so you can see what to do first.
1 + b =  a + b = d c
Multiply both sides by 3 (c) to get rid of fractions.
1 + b = 12  a + b = cd
Subtract 1 (a) from both sides.
b = b = cd - a

6. Begin Page 21 #7 – 31 ODD. Show work!