2. GGATHER ANY LIKE TERMS on each side before you move any terms to opposite sides of an equation. ii.e.5x + 10 – x = 6 – 4 4x + 10 = 2 -10 = -10 4x = -8 4 4 x = -2 CHECK YOUR SOLUTION

3.  When GROUPING SYMBOLS are involved use the DISTRIBUTIVE PROPERTY first.  i.e.-3(x – 2) = 7 -3x + 6 = 7 -6 = -6 -3x = 1 -3 x = -1/3 and CHECK

4. WWhen equations contain FRACTIONS get rid of the fraction by multiplying EVERYTHING by the COMMON DENOMINATOR. AAlso understand, y/3 means 1/3 y or x/5 means 1/5 x or 2a/3 means 2/3 a ii.e.½ x + ¼ = 4 Multiply EVERY term by the C. D. which is “4” 4( ½ x + ¼ = 4) 2x + 1 = 16 -1 = -1 2x = 15 2 = 2 x = 15/2

5.  When equations contain DECIMALS get rid of them by MULTIPLYING EVERY TERM by 10 raised to the largest number of decimal places.  i.e.1.2x – 3.6 +.3x = 2.4 Multiply EACH term by 10. 10(1.2x – 3.6 +.3x = 2.4) 12x – 36 + 3x = 24 15x – 36 = 24 + 36 = +36 15x = 60 15 15 x = 4

6. TTo solve ANY equation: 11. Eliminate fractions and decimals. 22. Use the DISTRIBUTIVE PROPERTY if required. 33. Combine LIKE TERMS. 44. Undo addition & subtraction. 55. Finally, undo multiplication & division.