Algebra & Expressions
One-Step Equations
A one-step equation is solved by performing a single operation — addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division — to isolate the variable.
Watch & Learn
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Worked Examples
Follow along with these step-by-step examples. Take your time — there's no rush!
Problem
Solve: x + 7 = 12
Step-by-Step Solution
We want x alone on one side.
Subtract 7 from both sides: x + 7 − 7 = 12 − 7
x = 5
Answer
x = 5
Problem
Solve: 3x = 18
Step-by-Step Solution
x is being multiplied by 3.
Divide both sides by 3: 3x ÷ 3 = 18 ÷ 3
x = 6
Answer
x = 6
Problem
Solve: x/4 = 9
Step-by-Step Solution
x is being divided by 4.
Multiply both sides by 4: (x/4) × 4 = 9 × 4
x = 36
Answer
x = 36
Problem
Solve: x − 8 = −3
Step-by-Step Solution
x has 8 subtracted from it.
Add 8 to both sides: x − 8 + 8 = −3 + 8
x = 5
Answer
x = 5
Problem
Solve: −4x = 20
Step-by-Step Solution
x is being multiplied by −4.
Divide both sides by −4: x = 20 ÷ (−4)
x = −5
Answer
x = −5
Your Turn — Practice Problems
Try all 5 problems on your own first. Write out your work — that's how it sticks!
💡 Tip: Don't peek at the answers until you've genuinely tried each one.
Solve: x + 5 = 13
Solve: x − 9 = 4
Solve: 5x = 35
Solve: x/3 = 7
Solve: x − 15 = −3
Solve: x + 20 = 8
Solve: −6x = 42
Solve: x/8 = 4
Solve: x − 3 = −10
Solve: 9x = −81
Solve: x + 1/2 = 3
Solve: x/5 = −6
Finished all 12? Give yourself a pat on the back — then check your work!
Keep going — you're on a roll!
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