One Step Equations for Kids: Solve for x with Inverse Operations (Grade 6 Math)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Today we are solving one step equations. An equation is like a balanced scale. Both sides are equal, and our job is to find the missing number, called the variable.

To find x, we undo whatever is happening to it. Adding is undone by subtracting. Subtracting is undone by adding. Multiplying is undone by dividing, and dividing is undone by multiplying.

Let's solve x plus four equals nine. Four is being added to x, so subtract four from both sides to keep it balanced. Nine minus four is five. So x equals five. Check it: five plus four is nine.

Next, x minus seven equals three. Seven is being taken away, so add seven to both sides. Three plus seven is ten, so x equals ten. Check it: ten minus seven is three.

Now six x equals forty two. Six x means six times x. To undo times six, divide both sides by six. Forty two divided by six is seven. So x equals seven. Check it: six times seven is forty two.

Last type: x divided by three equals five. To undo dividing by three, multiply both sides by three. Five times three is fifteen, so x equals fifteen. Check it: fifteen divided by three is five.

Now it's your turn. Solve x plus twelve equals thirty. Pause and try. Subtract twelve from both sides. Thirty minus twelve is eighteen. So x equals eighteen. Check it: eighteen plus twelve is thirty.

Great job! Remember, keep the equation balanced, do the inverse operation to both sides, and always check your answer. Practice one step equations in Middle School Math at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!