Chapter Summary
Solving linear equations
- Isolate the unknown by performing the same operation on both sides (balancing principle).
- For fractional coefficients: multiply both sides by the LCM of denominators to clear fractions.
- For fractional equations (unknown in denominator): multiply by the denominator expression, or cross-multiply.
- Always check by substituting your answer back into the original equation.
Word problems
- Define the variable → express other quantities → form equation → solve → check in context.
- Translate English phrases carefully: "5 more than " .
Coming next: Chapter 6 (Linear Functions and Graphs) extends equations into graphical form, every linear equation defines a straight line.
Later: Sec 2 Chapter 1 (Simultaneous Equations) extends to solving two equations with two unknowns.