Two-step equations
Solve 7x + 6 = 83
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 2 steps.
- 7x + 6 = 83The question.
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Step 1: Subtract 6 on both sides −6
On the left, the x part has + 6 with it. Take 6 away from both sides to get rid of it.
7x = 77On the left, the 6 cancels out.
+ 6 is undone by − 6.
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Step 2: Divide by 7 on both sides ÷7
7x means 7 × x. Divide both sides by 7 to get x on its own.
x = 11x is on its own. x = 11.
Multiplying is undone by dividing.
Answer: x = 11
Check it
Put x = 11 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.
Left side: 7x + 6 → 77 + 6 = 83
Right side: 83 → 83
✓ Both sides are 83, so x = 11 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.
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