One-step equations
Solve 6x = 36
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.
- 6x = 36The question.
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Step 1: Divide by 6 on both sides ÷6
6x means 6 × x. Divide both sides by 6 to get x on its own.
x = 6x is on its own. x = 6.
Multiplying is undone by dividing.
Answer: x = 6
Check it
Put x = 6 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.
Left side: 6x → 36
Right side: 36 → 36
✓ Both sides are 36, so x = 6 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