One-step equations
Solve 7x = 14
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.
- 7x = 14The question.
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Step 1: Divide by 7 on both sides ÷7
7x means 7 × x. Divide both sides by 7 to get x on its own.
x = 2x is on its own. x = 2.
Multiplying is undone by dividing.
Answer: x = 2
Check it
Put x = 2 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.
Left side: 7x → 14
Right side: 14 → 14
✓ Both sides are 14, so x = 2 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