Step1:

Get all the variable terms on one side of the equation 

• It doesn’t matter which side you choose - I tend to move it so my variable term remains positive 

• Make sure you follow the rules for equations 

Step 1:

subtract 3x from BOTH sides

Step 2:

Now get all the constants (regular numbers) to the OTHER side of the equation

• Once completed you will have your variable term on one side, and your constant term on the other

• Make sure you follow the rules for equations 

Step 2:

subtract 1 from BOTH sides

Step 3: Solve this one step equation

• Divide to get the variable all by itself 
  

Step 3:

divide each side by 2

Step 4: Check your answer

• Substitute your answer into every variable in the equation

• Follow the rules of the order of operations

• If the two sides match then you have the correct answer

Step 4:

check the answer x = 2

Solution to

2x - 5 = 4x + 3

Same problem solved two different ways