Two-Step Equations
A free Pre-Algebra lesson from the “Algebra Readiness” unit, with a worked example and practice problems including step-by-step solutions.
Two-step equations usually have two operations attached to the variable. Undo addition or subtraction first, then undo multiplication or division. Each step must keep both sides balanced. In Algebra Readiness, the goal is not just to get an answer but to recognize the structure of the problem, choose a reliable strategy, and explain why the result is reasonable. The practice set now includes targeted skill work, transfer questions, and mixed review so students build fluency and retention.
What you'll learn
- Undo addition or subtraction first
- Undo multiplication or division second
- Check multi-step equation solutions
Worked example
Problem. Solve 3x + 5 = 20.
- Subtract 5 from both sides: 3x = 15.
- Divide both sides by 3.
- x = 5.
- Connect the calculation back to Two-Step Equations so the method, not just the arithmetic, is clear.
Answer: 5
Lesson preview: this page shows 5 practice items. The interactive activity contains 28 practice items and 15 quiz items (typed response and multiple choice). Counts include repeated prompts and variants.
Practice problems
1. Solve 2x + 3 = 11.
Show solution
- Subtract 3 from both sides: 2x = 8.
- Divide by 2 to get x = 4.
Answer: 4
2. Solve 5x - 4 = 21.
Show solution
- Add 4 to both sides: 5x = 25.
- Divide by 5 to get x = 5.
Answer: 5
3. Solve x/3 + 2 = 8.
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- Subtract 2: x/3 = 6.
- Multiply by 3 to get x = 18.
Answer: 18
4. Solve 4n + 7 = 31.
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- Subtract 7: 4n = 24.
- Divide by 4: n = 6.
Answer: 6
5. Solve 6a - 9 = 15.
Show solution
- Add 9: 6a = 24.
- Divide by 6: a = 4.
Answer: 4
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