Solving 2-Step Variable Equations

What??? I just learned 1-step! Relax. You’ll use what you already know to solve 2-step equations.

So, what’s first? You need to break up the equation into its two steps.

STEP 1 The first step will always be either adding or subtracting.

STEP 2 The second step will always be either multiplying or dividing.

Ex. 1: Let’s try a problem. 8x + 5 = 61 This problem has addition, so we need to subtract first. - 5 Whatever we do on one side, we have to do on the other. 8x 56=

Now, Step 2. 8x = 56 This problem has multiplication, so we need to divide now. Whatever we do on one side, we have to do on the other. 88 x = 7

Ex. 2: Let’s try another problem. 3a - 8 = 4 This problem has subtraction, so we need to add first. + 8 Whatever we do on one side, we have to do on the other. 3a 12=

Now, Step 2. 3a = 12 This problem has multiplication, so we need to divide now. Whatever we do on one side, we have to do on the other. 33 a = 4

Now you try some problems. Copy these problems onto a piece of paper. Break each problem into 2 parts to solve. Show all your work! 1. 7f + 5 = q – 7 = t – 6 = y + 8 = -12

More practice 1. 5x - 5 = = 3x x + 23 = = 7 + 8y = -5n = -12 – 5z