PuzzleM8 Learning games for families

One-step equations

Solve 9x = 54

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. 9x = 54The question.

  2. Step 1: Divide by 9 on both sides ÷9

    9x means 9 × x. Divide both sides by 9 to get x on its own.

    x = 6

    x 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: 9x → 54

Right side: 54 → 54

✓ Both sides are 54, 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

More like this

Put PuzzleM8 on your home screen

It opens like an app, with its own icon, and games you've played work without the internet. It's free, and there's nothing to download from an app store.

iPhone or iPad (Safari)

Tap Share (a square with an arrow pointing up) or the ••• menu, then tap Add to Home Screen. You may need to scroll down, or tap Share first, to find it.

Android phone or tablet (Chrome)

Tap Install app if you see it. If not, tap the menu (three dots, top right), then Install app or Add to Home screen.

Computer (Chrome or Edge)

Click the install icon at the right of the address bar, or open the browser menu and choose Install PuzzleM8.

Mac (Safari)

Choose File, then Add to Dock.

Tip: open a few games while you're online. They're then saved on this device, ready for car journeys, holidays or a hospital stay.