Solve linear equations with steps

What this page covers

• Linear equations in one variable with the unknown on one or both sides.
• Brackets, decimals and fractions, cleared step by step.
• Equations with no solution or with every number as a solution, and how to tell.
• Not covered here: equations with x squared (use Solve an equation for x) and inequalities (use Inequality calculator with steps).

How to enter the problem

• Type it with the = sign. Brackets and fractions render as you type, or use the math keyboard.
• Scan it. Fit the one problem in the frame.
• Choose a photo. Several problems in one photo are solved as a list.
• Then tap Solve.

Worked examples

Common mistakes

• Getting the sign wrong when expanding: $-3(x - 2)$ is $-3x + 6$. Writing $-3x - 6$ leads to $x = \frac{26}{5}$ instead of $\frac{14}{5}$.
• Changing a term's side but keeping its sign. Moving $+5$ to the other side makes it $-5$.
• Multiplying only the fractions by the common denominator. In the last worked example the $2$ on the right must also be multiplied by $12$.
• Dividing by the coefficient before the constant has been moved, so only part of a side is divided.

Checks, assumptions and limits

• Substitute the answer into the original equation. For the runnable example, $x = 6$ gives $4 \cdot 5 - 3 = 17$ and $2 \cdot 6 + 5 = 17$.
• If the x terms cancel and a false statement such as 1 = 5 is left, there is no solution. A true statement such as 2 = 2 means every number is a solution.
• Clearing decimals or fractions means multiplying every term on both sides by the same number.
• MathBuddy can make mistakes. Double check important steps.

Related tasks

• Solve an equation for x
• Solve a formula for a variable
• Solve a system of equations
• Inequality calculator with steps
• Algebra calculator with steps
• All algebra tasks
• All math tasks