# Starting Algebra but this question has me so confused

#### bearynice

A calculator and a pen were sold for x dollars. Jason bought 2 calculators and 4 pens for $16. How much did the 2 calculators cost altogether? #### Dr.Peterson ##### Elite Member First, you need to understand that the answer will not be a number, but an expression in the variable x. Do you see that? Now suppose you had been given a specific number in place of x: A calculator and a pen were sold for 5 dollars. Jason bought 2 calculators and 4 pens for$16.​
How much did the 2 calculators cost altogether?​

Can you see any way to solve this problem (without using algebra)?

One way is to think about what it would cost to buy 4 calculators and 4 pens.

If you still have not idea what to do, it will be very helpful if you can tell us how much algebra you have learned. This is an odd problem, because x is not defined as a single quantity as we normally would; have you been given any examples similar to it? I'd like to see one (with its answer), to see what you are expected to do. It's possible that my idea may not be what they have in mind!

#### bearynice

##### New member
sorry re guidelines! (mother posting on behalf of daughter here)... this is literally her first attempt at Algebra and I have no idea how to help her. The question did seem unusual to me. But here are her workings..

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