PuzzleM8 Learning games for families

One-step equations

Solve 3x = 12

The aim is to get x on its own. Whatever we do to one side, we do to the other, so the equation stays balanced. This one takes 1 step.

  1. 3x = 12The question.

  2. Step 1: Divide by 3 on both sides ÷3

    3x means 3 × x. Divide both sides by 3 to get x on its own.

    x = 4

    x is on its own. x = 4.

    Multiplying is undone by dividing.

Answer: x = 4

Check it

Put x = 4 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.

Left side: 3x → 12

Right side: 12 → 12

✓ Both sides are 12, so x = 4 is right.

Now try it yourself

Solve this one in Algebra Balance. You choose each step, and it explains what happened, with hints if you get stuck.

Practise this in Algebra Balance

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