 The 'trial and error' method of solving equations is the first method you learned. Have a look at this equation: 
To solve this equation, you must find a value of x that works. What number can you multiply by 2 and add 1 to, that will give the result 15? After trying a few numbers, you will probably find the correct answer ... it's 7. 
The problem with the 'trial & error' method is that as the questions get more complicated, it will become more and more difficult to discover the number that works. Moreover, if the answer is not a simple integer, you will likely not find it easily, or at all. That's the reason you have learned a method for solving equations that doesn't rely on guessing, and that always works, by following a few simple steps. This method is what we'll be reviewing and practicing on these pages. |