When solving systems of linear equations using the elimination method, there are some simple steps to follow. Here’s how I usually do it:
Write the equations: Start by writing down the two equations you need to solve. For example:
Align the equations: Make sure both equations are in standard form, which means all the terms are on one side of the equals sign.
Manipulate the equations: To eliminate one variable, you might need to multiply one or both equations by a number. For example, if you want to eliminate ( y ), you could multiply the second equation by 3.
Add or subtract the equations: Now, combine the two equations. The goal is to eliminate one variable. It would look something like this:
Solve for the remaining variable: Once you’ve removed one variable, you can solve for the other variable.
Back substitute: Finally, take the solution you found and plug it back into one of the original equations to find the other variable.
And just like that, you've solved the system!
When solving systems of linear equations using the elimination method, there are some simple steps to follow. Here’s how I usually do it:
Write the equations: Start by writing down the two equations you need to solve. For example:
Align the equations: Make sure both equations are in standard form, which means all the terms are on one side of the equals sign.
Manipulate the equations: To eliminate one variable, you might need to multiply one or both equations by a number. For example, if you want to eliminate ( y ), you could multiply the second equation by 3.
Add or subtract the equations: Now, combine the two equations. The goal is to eliminate one variable. It would look something like this:
Solve for the remaining variable: Once you’ve removed one variable, you can solve for the other variable.
Back substitute: Finally, take the solution you found and plug it back into one of the original equations to find the other variable.
And just like that, you've solved the system!