PuzzleM8 Learning games for families

One-step equations

Solve x/5 = 1

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. x/5 = 1The question.

  2. Step 1: Multiply by 5 on both sides ×5

    x/5 means x is divided by 5. Multiply both sides by 5.

    x = 5

    x is on its own. x = 5.

    Dividing is undone by multiplying.

Answer: x = 5

Check it

Put x = 5 back into the question. If both sides come to the same number, the answer is right.

Left side: x/5 → 1

Right side: 1 → 1

✓ Both sides are 1, so x = 5 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

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