What are the basic rules of algebra?

Answer 1

The basic rules of algebra are as follows...

* Remember when moving a constant from one side to another, you must apply new value. (ie. positive or negative number) 5+x=25/5+5-5=25-5/x=5

You must remember to isolate the unknown value (more commonly known as a variable) in order to solve an equations. 5x+4=x+20/

Group variable on one side, constants on other. 5x-x=20-4/4x=16/x=4

You may only add, subtract, multiply and/or divide coefficients and variables which are the same. (ie.x+x/2x+3x)

After you have finished solving your equation, the order of variables are as follows this- alphabetical order, and then its the highest exponent sum. (ie. x+y4+z7)

If requested, present a Left-Side Right-Side check.

* Commutative property: a+b = b+a, ab = ba * Associative property: a+(b+c) = (a+b)+c = a+b+c, a(bc) = (ab)c = abc * Identities: a+0 = a, 1a = a * Distributive property of multiplication over addition: a(b+c) = ab+ac The first three properties have an versions for addition and multiplication. Division and subtraction are not commutative or associative. The distributive property ties addition and multiplication together.

One important concept is the order of operations. Parentheses establish precedence. Multiplication and division occur first, left to right, and then addition and subtraction. Thus, 5+3x4 = 17, not 32.

Other key concepts are the slope/intercept form of a line, y=mx + b, where m=slope and b=y intercept. Memorize the quadratic equation--it will prove very useful. And above all else, learn how to do ratios and proportions.