Using the add property to solve equations

Using the add property to solve equations

Hello, let see if I can continue this conversation with out being abused or poo’ed on by others.

For example_#03 Solve for x:

I’ve read the text and I’m almost understanding it all, but I have some questions yet. The text from the book is as follows:

“SOLUTION: To solve the equation for x, we need to rewrite the equation in the form x = number. In other words, our goal is to get x alone on one side of the equation. To do so, we add 2 to both sides of the equation.”

This is how it’s written in the book:

X – 2 = 1
X – 2 + 2 = 1 + 2
X = 3

There is no further instructions and when I try I get a funny answer. 2 + 2 = 4, but 1 + 2 = 3. It only works out when I do it like this, substitute 3 for x, 3 – 2 + 2 = 3. Ok then how can you use x to solve for x when you don’t known what x is? Also wouldn’t it be easier to just rewrite the equation in this manner?

X – 2 = 1
X = 1 + 2 = 3
X = 3

Sure you can do that as long as: Whatever you do to one side of the equation you do the same thing to the other side. As long as you do that, you are in perfect shape.

Hi jonboy, thanks for the help that clears that one up.