Multi-step equations can be solved using a 4 step process: 1) distribute, 2) combine like terms, 3) get variables on one side, and 4) isolate the variable. An example problem is worked through to demonstrate the steps: 7(x+9) – 10 = 2x + 6. First, terms are distributed and combined like terms. Then, variables are isolated on one side by subtracting them from both sides of the equation. Finally, the variable is isolated on one side of the equation to solve for its value.

1. Multi-Step Equations
by Andre Street

2. The Four Steps to Solve Multi-
Step Equations
1. Distribute
2. Combine like terms
3. Get variables on one sides
4. Isolate the variable

3. Pick an example problem (delete all the others):
7(x+9) – 10 = 2x + 6
Step 1: Distribute 63 and 10
X = -9.4=
=
5x=-47
5x+53=6
-53 -53
7x+53=2x+6
/-47/-47
Step 2: combine 7x and 2x
Step 3: get 53 and 6 on one
side. Step 4: isolate 5x
and -47
7x+63-10=2x+6

4. Unit Reflection
• I learned the following vocabulary words this
unit: I how to isolate variables, distribute the
variables, and get them on one side
• The hardest part was… getting the variables on
both sides
• The easiest part was… to isolate the variables.