Algebra is fun. Why? Cuz it ends with “bra”

What is Algebra? It helps you to find missing information or Unknown to be specific. In a real life scenario, the unknown could be the total cost of your next laptop after list price + taxes. Or it could be used to calculate for total interest paid after the end amortization period.

The unknown in general in Mathematics is denoted by “x”. But you could always use your own character. The x (or unknown) than becomes a variable.

What is a Math equation? The equation in Mathematics represents a sentence. Just like how we have in English language. The equation is what we use to figure out the value of unknown. For example, List Price + Tax = Total Price Paid

Please note we can always rearrange equations. For example, List Price = Total Price Paid – Tax

TIP: It helps to write out the entire sentence in English first and then pick information out of it.

The process of solving for the unknown involves isolating variable x from all values. At the end you will get a value like x = 10 or x = 2.33. When you have fully isolated the variable x you have solved the equation.

What is an inverse operation? The inverse operation takes place when we are trying to isolate the variable x. It is very important to maintain balance during the inverse operation. It is done by applying the same operator + number on both sides (and not just one). The inverse operation for addition is subtraction. And the inverse operation for multiplication is division.

You could always use the process of substitution to verify your calculation. It is done by substituting the value of x back into the equation.

The process of solving a problem using Algebra

1. Understand the problem statement – Retrieve all given information and create a sentence in English language. The sentence will include numbers that will help you to calculate the unknown value.

2. Create equation to solve for x

3. Figure out how to isolate the variable x

4. Manipulate the equation – You will apply inverse operation here

5. Rewrite the equation

6. Equation is solved you have found the value of x. You’ll get a value in a format x = 10, or x = 2.33.

7. You may use the process of substitution to verify your calculation

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