What is the method for solving one-step equations with addition and subtraction?

• A. Isolating the variable using inverse operations
• B. Graphing the equation
• C. Substituting random values into the equation
• D. Adding terms together without balancing

Answer: (A)

Solving one-step equations with addition and subtraction is all about isolating the variable by undoing the operation on it. Use inverse operations on both sides to keep the equation balanced. If the variable is on the left with addition, subtract that number from both sides; if it’s with subtraction, add that number to both sides. This leaves the variable by itself, revealing its value. For example, x + 7 = 15 becomes x = 8 after subtracting 7 from both sides. Similarly, x - 4 = 9 becomes x = 13 after adding 4 to both sides. Graphing or guessing values doesn’t systematically find the exact solution for a simple one-step equation, and adding terms without balancing doesn’t solve the equation.