Two-step equations
Solve x/4 + 1 = 12
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.
- x/4 + 1 = 12The question.
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Step 1: Subtract 1 on both sides −1
On the left, the x part has + 1 with it. Take 1 away from both sides to get rid of it.
x/4 = 11On the left, the 1 cancels out.
+ 1 is undone by − 1.
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Step 2: Multiply by 4 on both sides ×4
x/4 means x is divided by 4. Multiply both sides by 4.
x = 44x is on its own. x = 44.
Dividing is undone by multiplying.
Answer: x = 44
Check it
Put x = 44 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.
Left side: x/4 + 1 → 11 + 1 = 12
Right side: 12 → 12
✓ Both sides are 12, so x = 44 is right.
Now try it yourself
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