D iscover the variable and the operations.
  • Circle the operation sign.

  • Scan the equation and look for operation signs (+, -, x, ÷).

 



R ead the equation and combine like terms.

  • Read the whole equation out loud.

  • Look for "like terms".

    • For example, numbers that have the same letter next to them:
      (6a + 2a + 5 + 2 = 15). Both "6a" amd
      "2a" are like terms. Also, numbers without letters next to them are like terms ("5" and "2").

  • Combine "like terms".

    • For example, "6a" and "2a" can be combined (6a + 2a = "8a"). Also, "5" and "2" can be combined
      (5 + 2 = "7").

    • 6a + 2a + 5 + 2 = 15 now becomes
      8a + 7 = 15.



A nswer the equation, or draw and check.
  • See example of how to draw the solution.



Write the answer for the variable.
  • Be sure to check the equation.



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