What you’ll learn
Solve multi-step linear equations.
Key idea
Combine the constants, then undo addition and multiplication with equivalent steps.
The outside multiplier applies to every term in parentheses; signed constants must be retained throughout.
Worked example
Enter the exact value or ordered values in the format requested below.
Solve 2(2x-5)+2=-24 for x. Enter the exact number.
- Distribute to get 4x-10+2=-24.
- Combine constants, giving 4x=-16; divide by 4 to get x=-4.
Answer: -4
Quick Check
Evaluate a worked attempt at solve multi-step linear equations, identify the first invalid step, and provide the correction.
A student solves 2(2x-3)-4=10: Step 1, distribute as 4x-3-4=10, leaving the inside constant unchanged. Identify the first invalid step and correct x.