Solving Two-Step Equations: A Step-by-Step Guide

What is a Two-Step Equation?

A two-step equation is an equation that requires two steps to solve. The first step is to isolate the variable, and the second step is to solve for the variable.

Why is it Important to be Able to Solve Two-Step Equations?

Solving two-step equations is an important math skill that is used in many different areas of life, such as science, business, and finance. Two-step equations are also used in many standardized tests, such as the SAT and ACT.

How to Use a Two-Step Equation Calculator

To use a two-step equation calculator, simply enter the equation into the calculator and press the “solve” button. The calculator will then show you the solution to the equation.

Examples of Two-Step Equations

Here are some examples of two-step equations:

• x + 2 = 7
• 3x – 4 = 10
• 5x + 1 = 16
• 2x – 3 = -1
• 4x + 5 = -3

How to Solve Two-Step Equations

To solve a two-step equation, follow these steps:

1. Identify the variable. The variable is the letter that represents the unknown value you are trying to solve for.
2. Combine like terms. Like terms are terms that have the same variable and exponent. For example, 2x and 3x are like terms. To combine like terms, add or subtract the coefficients of the like terms.
3. Isolate the variable. To isolate the variable, add or subtract the same number to both sides of the equation until the variable is alone on one side of the equation.
4. Solve for the variable. To solve for the variable, divide both sides of the equation by the coefficient of the variable.
5. Check your answer. To check your answer, substitute the solution back into the original equation and make sure that both sides of the equation are equal.

Examples of Solving Two-Step Equations

Here are some examples of how to solve two-step equations:

Example 1:

x + 2 = 7

Solution:

1. Identify the variable: x
2. Combine like terms: x + 2 = 7
3. Isolate the variable: x + 2 – 2 = 7 – 2
4. Solve for the variable: x = 5
5. Check your answer: 5 + 2 = 7

Example 2:

3x – 4 = 10

Solution:

1. Identify the variable: x
2. Combine like terms: 3x – 4 = 10
3. Isolate the variable: 3x – 4 + 4 = 10 + 4
4. Solve for the variable: 3x = 14
5. Check your answer: 3(4.67) – 4 = 10

Conclusion

Solving two-step equations is a basic math skill that everyone should know. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily solve any two-step equation.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a one-step equation and a two-step equation?

A: A one-step equation is an equation that can be solved in one step. A two-step equation is an equation that must be solved in two steps.

Q: How do I know if an equation is a two-step equation?

A: An equation is a two-step equation if it has two mathematical operations on one or both sides of the equation.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving two-step equations?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving two-step equations include:

• Not identifying the variable
• Not combining like terms
• Not isolating the variable
• Not solving for the variable
• Not checking your answer

Q: Are there any other types of equations that I should know how to solve?

A: Yes, there are many other types of equations that you should know how to solve, such as one-variable equations, two-variable equations, and quadratic equations.