An algebraic equation is an equation with at least one variable. Apply operations equally to both sides to modify an equation. For example, you can add 2 to both sides, subtract x from both sides or multiply both sides by 2. To solve an algebraic equation, apply operations that isolate x on one side of the equation and put a number on the other side. Here are the standard steps for a problem such as 10x – 6 = 7x + 9:
Add or subtract to move all the constants to one side of the equation.
If you add 6 to both sides, the –6 cancels out on the left: 10x = 7x + 15.
Add or subtract to move all the variables to the other side.
If you subtract 7x from both sides, the 7x cancels out on the right: 3x = 15.
Divide both sides by the coefficient (the number next to the variable) to isolate x.
Dividing both sides by 3 gives you the answer x = 5.
