Definition
Solving an equation
Solving an equation means working out every allowed value that leaves both sides equal.
What it means
Treat the equals sign like a balance. Make valid changes that keep both sides equal while you uncover the variable's value. Then substitute the value into the original equation to check that both sides match.
Remember it
Keep the equality balanced while uncovering the value.
Example
Solve 3x + 4 = 19. Subtract 4 from both sides to get 3x = 15. Divide both sides by 3 to get x = 5. Check: 3 × 5 + 4 = 19, so 5 is a solution.
Watch for
Changing only one side usually makes a different equation rather than an equivalent solving step.
Common mix-up
A solution must make the original equation true; a neat-looking final value is not enough.
Exact meaning
Solving an equation means finding every allowed value of its variable or variables that makes the equation true.