Linear Equation Solver

About Linear Equation Solver

A linear equation has an unknown, usually x, that appears only to the first power. The method is to collect the x terms on one side and the plain numbers on the other, then divide. For ax + b = cx + d, taking cx and b from both sides gives (a - c)x = d - b, and dividing by a - c gives x. The golden rule is that whatever you do to one side of the equation you must do to the other.

This solver follows that method and writes out each line. It uses exact fractions, so 3x = 2 gives x = 2/3 rather than a rounded decimal, and it also shows the decimal. Two special cases are handled. If the x terms cancel and the numbers disagree, such as x + 1 = x + 2, there is no solution. If everything cancels and the numbers agree, every value of x works. The check at the end puts your answer back into both sides so you can see they match.

How to use Linear Equation Solver

1. Write your equation as ax + b = cx + d. If a side has no x, enter 0 for that number.
2. Type a, b, c and d into the boxes. Fractions and decimals are fine.
3. Read the equation shown above the boxes to check it matches yours.
4. Follow the steps and look at the check at the end.

Common uses

• Checking algebra homework one line at a time
• Solving unit price and cost comparison equations
• Finding when two prices or plans cost the same
• Rearranging a simple formula for one unknown