How Do You Solve a Word Problem Using an Equation With Variables on Both Sides?

Note:

Word problems are a great way to see math in the real world! In this tutorial, you'll see how to take a word problem and use it to write and solve an equation with variables on both sides!

Keywords:

problem
word
real world
equation
variables
both sides
reverse order of operations
multi-step

Background Tutorials

Evaluate expressions at specific values of their variables. Include expressions that arise from formulas used in real-world problems. Perform arithmetic operations, including those involving whole-number exponents, in the conventional order when there are no parentheses to specify a particular order (Order of Operations).
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  Solving equations can be tough, especially if you've forgotten or have trouble understanding the tools at your disposal. One of those tools is the division property of equality, and it lets you divide both sides of an equation by the same number. Watch the video to see it in action!
Give examples of linear equations in one variable with one solution, infinitely many solutions, or no solutions. Show which of these possibilities is the case by successively transforming the given equation into simpler forms, until an equivalent equation of the form x = a, a = a, or a = b results (where a and b are different numbers).
- How Do You Solve an Equation with Variables on Both Sides?
  
  Trying to solve an equation with variables on both sides of the equal sign? Figure out how to get those variables together and find the answer with this tutorial!
Interpret parts of an expression, such as terms, factors, and coefficients.
- What is a Constant?
  
  Constants are parts of algebraic expressions that don't change. Check out this tutorial to see exactly what a constant looks like and why it doesn't change.