Solving Equations Worksheets

Solve linear equations by applying the same operation to both sides and check by substitution.

Learn the skill

Solving one-step equations with inverse operations

An equation states that two expressions have equal value. Undo the operation attached to the variable by applying its inverse to both sides. This preserves equality and isolates the unknown.

A method you can use

  1. Identify the operation performed on the variable.
  2. Apply the inverse operation equally to both sides.
  3. Substitute the answer into the original equation to verify it.

Worked examples

Example 1

Solve x + 7 = 19.

  1. Subtract 7 from both sides.
  2. x = 19 − 7; check 12 + 7 = 19.

Answer: x = 12

Example 2

Solve 4x = 28.

  1. Divide both sides by 4.
  2. Check 4 × 7 = 28.

Answer: x = 7

Example 3

Solve x/5 = 3.

  1. Multiply both sides by 5.
  2. Check 15 ÷ 5 = 3.

Answer: x = 15

Try it yourself

Solve these before opening the answers. The printable sets below give you more practice.

1. Solve x − 8 = 6.

Show answer and explanation

x = 14

Add 8 to both sides.

2. Solve 6x = 42.

Show answer and explanation

x = 7

Divide both sides by 6.

Take the three-skill math check for this grade →

Before you begin

Use signed arithmetic, substitute values and read expressions with variables.

Choose your level

  • Easy: Use positive integers and one-step relationships.
  • Medium: Use signed values or two steps.
  • Hard: Combine operations or reverse a relationship.

Questions and answer calculations checked on 2026-09-17. How we check worksheets. Free for personal and classroom use.

Preview and print an easy set

Try six questions below, or choose a full set at your level.

1
Solve: x + 5 = 13.
2
Solve: x + 5 = 17.
3
Solve: x + 8 = 12.
4
Solve: x + 11 = 15.
5
Solve: x + 4 = 15.
6
Solve: x + 2 = 4.

Answer Key

1. x = 82. x = 123. x = 44. x = 45. x = 116. x = 2

Full worksheet sets