How do you isolate the variable?

Answer 1

Addition

x-3=4

to isolate the variable in this case, you would add three to the left and right.

x=7

Subtraction

4+x=6

to isolate the variable here, you must subtract four from the left and right.

x=2

Multiplication

x/2=3

to isolate "x" you must multiply 2 to each side. When you multiply the 2 to the denominator, you are eliminating the number, it will not equal 4.

x=6

Division

3x=6

in order to get the variable by itself, you must divide each side by 3.

x=2

NOTES

When adding/subtracting, variables will always go with variables, and numbers will go with numbers. multiplying or dividing should always go after adding or subtracting.

Last Example

4x+3=x-4

First you would subtract 3 from the 3 on the left and the -4 on the right.

4x=x-7

next, you must subtract x from the x on the right and from the 4x on the left.

3x=-7

finally, you will divide by 3 on each side.

x=-7/3

the -7/3 in mixed form is -2 1/3.