Solving Multi Step Equations

Example: 5(x + 2) = -10x + 55

Rid the equation of any (parentheses).
Use the Distributive Property.

5(x + 2) = -10x + 55
5x +10 = -10x +55

Remember: (n+3) is the same as 1(n+3)

Nothing to Combine
Combine like terms on each side of
Remember only look at one side of
(might
not
have
any
to
combine!)
the equation.
equation when combining.
Its OK.

Move variable terms to one side of

the equation, and constant terms
to the other side of the equation.
Make Zero Pairs.
Remember: add or subtract entire term from
each side of the equation to move it

Isolate the variable to solve the

equation. (Get rid of the coefficient by dividing)
Remember: inverse operation of multiplication is

5x + 10 = - 10x +55
-5x
- 5x
10 = - 15x +55
-55
-55
-45 = -15x
-45 = -15x
-15 - 15
3=x

Dont Forget Order of Operations - PEMDAS

Check your solution by plugging it back into the original equation.

5(3 + 2) = -10(3) + 55

5(5) = -30 + 55

25=25

Is your equation balanced? (one side of the equation should equal the other)