Solving Two-Step Equations
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The key to solving two-step equations is to always move the number added/subtracted to the variable first. (If you move the number multiplied/divided first, you have to distribute the number to each term, which adds extra work.) Here's how it's done:
1) 2y + 5 = 3 We must move the number added first, which is the 5. To
 do this, remember that we add the opposite to both sides.2y = -2Now we'll simplify what we can and bring everything else down.  Now we are back to a one-step equation in which the 2 is being multiplied. We'll move it by dividing both sides by 2.y = -1We have the variable all by itself, so this is our answer. Check our answer:  -2 + 5 = 3 True 2) -14 = -3x - 8 If having the variable on the right is confusing to you, -3x - 8 = -14 switch the sides.  We must move the number added first, which is the -8To do this, remember that we add the opposite to -3x = -6 both sides. Now we'll simplify what we can and bring everything else  down.Now we are back to a one-step equation in which the -3 is being multiplied. We'll move it by dividing both sides x = 2 by -3 We have the variable all by itself, so this is our answer. Check our answer:  -14 = -6 - 8 True Practice: Solve each equation and check your answer. 1) 4x + 2 = 14 2) -2y + 8 = 2 3)  4) 3 = 2x - 8 5)  Answers:1) x = 32) y = 33) x = 124)  5) y = 20
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