Two-step equations

Solve 8x − 5 = 67

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.

1. 8x − 5 = 67The question.

2. Step 1: Add 5 on both sides +5

   On the left, the x part has − 5 with it. Add 5 to both sides to get rid of it.

   8x = 72

   On the left, the 5 cancels out.

   − 5 is undone by + 5.

3. Step 2: Divide by 8 on both sides ÷8

   8x means 8 × x. Divide both sides by 8 to get x on its own.

   x = 9

   x is on its own. x = 9.

   Multiplying is undone by dividing.

Answer: x = 9

Check it

Put x = 9 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.

Left side: 8x − 5 → 72 − 5 = 67

Right side: 67 → 67

✓ Both sides are 67, so x = 9 is right.

Now try it yourself

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