solving linear equations
1. Start by removing all sets of parentheses with the distributive property, then combine any like terms.
2. Isolate the variables to one side of the equation, with the use of addition and subtraction. Combine like terms, if any.
3. Make the coefficient of the variable equal to one with the use of multiplication and division.
4. At this point, the variable should be alone on one side of the equation, meaning that any numbers on the other side are solutions of the equation for .
5. Test your answer by substituting it back into the original equation and solve. If it’s correct, both sides will equal the same value.