Solving Two Step Equations

It takes two steps to solve an equation that has more than one operation:

1. Simplify using the inverse of addition or subtraction.
2. Simplify further by using the inverse of multiplication or division.

Remember, when you multiply or divide an a negative number, you must reverse the inequality symbol.

Example 1.

2x - 17 = 11

Solution. 2x - 17 = 11

2x = 17 + 11

2x = 28

x = 28/2

x = 18

Example 2.

7x + 17 = 87

7x = 87 - 17

7x = 70

x = 70/7

x = 10

Example3. 41 = 13p + 2

Solution. 41 - 2 = 13p

39 = 13p

13p = 39

p = 39/13

p = 3