PuzzleM8 Learning games for families

One-step equations

Solve 5x = 15

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. 5x = 15The question.

  2. Step 1: Divide by 5 on both sides ÷5

    5x means 5 × x. Divide both sides by 5 to get x on its own.

    x = 3

    x is on its own. x = 3.

    Multiplying is undone by dividing.

Answer: x = 3

Check it

Put x = 3 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.

Left side: 5x → 15

Right side: 15 → 15

✓ Both sides are 15, so x = 3 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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