The document provides instructions for solving basic equations using addition and subtraction. It explains that to solve an equation means to isolate the variable by using the property of equality, where any operation done to one side must also be done to the other side. It then walks through examples of solving equations such as r + 16 = -7 by subtracting 16 from both sides to isolate r. It emphasizes drawing a "river" to separate the equation into two sides and checking the answer by substituting it back into the original equation.