Firstly, we need to know what an equation is. An equation is really a mathematical sentence where "something" is equal to "something else". So for example, we may have an equation like so;
5x - 6 = 14
This satisfies the definition for an equation because we have "something" (5x - 6) being equal tp "something else" (14). Now if we wanted to solve this, we want to come up with a value for "x" that makes this equation true (i.e. a number we can substitute in for "x" that makes 5x - 6 equal to 14).
We can do this a few ways. One way is simply using trial and error. We can try values for x, and hope we come up with a result. This can work sometimes, but when equations get very complicated this method falls down.
Another method is called the "back-tracking method". This method is a little more complicated, but it will work every time. Once you get the hang of it, it works really well.
The back-tracking method involves applying mathematical operations to the equation to try and get out pronumeral by itself on one side of our equal side, and a number on the other side of the equal sign. We do this by back-tracking through the equations that we have, doing the opposite to what the equation is asking us to do. For example, if our equation says to add 4, to solve it we would subtract 4. If our equation says to multiply by 3, we would do the opposite which is dividing by 3.
Now for more information on this, and some great worked examples, have a look at this document by clicking here.
I have uploaded a worksheet on doing this in the "Worksheets" tab. Work through this. It is a new and quite difficult concept, so take your time with it. Use the examples and explanations in the document above to help you. If you are still having troubles, feel free to comment on this post, or email or chat to me in person.
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