The main purpose of algebra is to solve problems.
Using equations to solve problems can be useful when we are given a word problem.
Example
I think of a number and multiply it by 6. After adding 20 to the result, my answer is 2. What is the number I first thought of?
Let the number I first thought of be x
When I multiply by 6 and add 20, this becomes 6x + 20. This is equal to 2.
The equation is: 6x + 20 = 2
Solve to get:
6x = -18
x = -3
The number I first thought of is -3
We can check our answer by putting it back into the equation:
-3 × 6 = -18
-18 + 20 = 2 so it works.
Let's have a go at some questions now.
View the activity introduction for more information on the topic
Read the question aloud
Open the accessibility toolbar to change fonts and contrast, choose a different language, use a ruler and more
Question
Do you want to skip questions and finish?
Hold up, it looks like there may be an issue with your spelling. Why not try it again?
You need to check your answer before you proceed. Are you sure you want to skip?
Teacher explanation