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SingaporeMathsQuick questions
Equations and Inequalities
Quick questions on Linear equations explained: N(A)-Level Mathematics Equations and Inequalities
6short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What are unknowns on both sides?Show answer
When the unknown appears on both sides, first collect the unknown terms on one side and the numbers on the other. For , subtract from both sides to get , add to get , then divide by to get .
What are equations with brackets?Show answer
Expand the brackets first, then solve as usual. For , expand to , subtract to get , then divide by to get .
What are equations with fractions?Show answer
Multiply every term by the denominator to clear the fraction. For , multiply both sides by to get . For , multiply both sides by to get , so .
What is checking your solution?Show answer
Substitute your answer back into the original equation. If both sides give the same value, the solution is correct. This catches sign and arithmetic slips and is quick to do.
What are forming equations from words?Show answer
Translate a word problem in three steps: let a letter stand for the unknown, write the relationship as an equation, then solve it. Phrases such as "is", "gives" or "equals" mark where the equals sign goes.
What are sign errors moving terms?Show answer
A term moved across the equals sign changes sign: becomes , not .
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