How do you get the variable alone in each math equation?

Answer 1

You need to manipulate the equation in such a way that anything that is next to the variable disappears. Here is an example. Solve the equation:2x + 5 = 17

Since you want to have the "x" alone on one side, you want to get rid of the 2, and of the 5. Let's start with the 5 (it's a bit easier that way). The opposite of adding 5 is to subtract 5, so you do exactly that:

2x + 5 - 5 = 17 -5

2x + 0 = 12

2x = 12

(Note that you don't need to write out all this detail; with a bit of practice, you can write out the last equation directly.)

Now, get rid of the "2". Since a multiplication is involved, you need to divide by 2. The result is:

2x/2 = 12

x = 6

Answer 2

either add or subtract the opposite and isolate the variable to one side. if the variable is attached by a number simply divide it on both sides by the number attached.