The elimination method for solving systems of linear equations uses the addition

property of equality. You can add the same value to each side of an equation.
Using Addition to Eliminate a Variable:
If you add the two equations, x – y = −6 and x + y = 8 together, as noted below, watch
what happens.

Example

Proble Use elimination to solve the system.  

m
   x – y = −6
x + y = 8

  Add the equations.

  2x = 2 Solve for x.

x = 1

  x + y = 8 Substitute x = 1 into one of the

original equations and solve for y.
1 + y = 8
y = 8 – 1
y = 7

  x – y = −6 x + y = 8 Be sure to check your answer in

both equations!
1 – 7 = −6 1+7=8
 
−6 = −6 8=8
 
   
The answers check.
TRUE TRU
E

Answer The solution is (1, 7).