Two Step Equations for Kids: Undo Adding, Then Undo Multiplying (Grade 7 Math)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Today we are solving two step equations, like two x plus three equals eleven. Here, two things happen to x, so we need two steps to undo them.

Think of wrapping a present. You put it in a box, then add the bow. To unwrap, take off the bow first, then open the box. In equations, undo adding or subtracting first, then multiplying or dividing.

Let's solve two x plus three equals eleven. Step one: subtract three from both sides. Eleven minus three is eight, so two x equals eight. Step two: divide both sides by two. x equals four.

Always check by putting your answer back in. Two times four is eight. Eight plus three is eleven. That matches the right side of the equation, so x equals four is correct.

Another one. Five x minus four equals twenty one. Add four to both sides, so five x equals twenty five. Divide both sides by five, so x equals five. Check: five times five is twenty five, minus four is twenty one.

This one has division. x divided by four, plus two, equals six. Subtract two from both sides, so x divided by four equals four. Multiply both sides by four, so x equals sixteen.

Now it's your turn. Solve three x plus seven equals twenty five. Pause and try. Subtract seven, so three x equals eighteen. Divide by three, so x equals six. Check: three times six is eighteen, plus seven is twenty five.

Great job! Remember, undo adding or subtracting first, then undo multiplying or dividing, and always check by putting your answer back in. Practice two step equations in Middle School Math at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!