# Solving Equations With Variables on Both Sides

• Oct 23rd 2006, 05:35 PM
hectorjimenezjr@yahoo.com
Solving Equations With Variables on Both Sides
Hi,

Name is Hector. Working with my son trying to help w/ equations with variables on both sides. To be honest, I have NO IDEA how to proceed.

Can someone coach us on this?

4x-6=x+9

6x-9x-4=-2x-2

2(x-3)=(x-1)+7

Again, not looking for the answer, looking for someone to walk us through the process.

Thanks!!!
• Oct 23rd 2006, 06:07 PM
ThePerfectHacker
Quote:

Originally Posted by hectorjimenezjr@yahoo.com
Hi,

Name is Hector. Working with my son trying to help w/ equations with variables on both sides. To be honest, I have NO IDEA how to proceed.

Can someone coach us on this?

4x-6=x+9

6x-9x-4=-2x-2

2(x-3)=(x-1)+7

Again, not looking for the answer, looking for someone to walk us through the process.

Thanks!!!

You have,
$4x-6=x+9$
Subtarct $x$ from both sides,
$3x-6=9$
Add $6$ to both sides,
$3x=15$
Divide both sides by three,
$x=5$.

The general idea is to combine the variables together (and if they are on opposite sides bring them together as here). Then bring all the numbers to the other side. Then finally divide by the number in from of the variable if there is one (if there is non it means it is $1x$ which is the same as $x$)