6th Grade Math
Ratios, proportions, and algebraic thinking for sixth grade students.
Advanced Topics
Using Variables to Write and Solve Equations
Creating Equations
You can write equations to solve word problems using variables. An equation has an equals sign and shows that two things are the same.
Solving Equations
- Find what the variable stands for.
- Do the same thing to both sides to keep the balance.
- Check your answer by plugging it back in.
Real-World Examples
If you know your total spending is \$30 and each movie ticket costs \$6, you can write \(6x = 30\) to find out how many tickets you bought.
Examples
If \(x + 5 = 12\), then \(x = 7\).
If 4 notebooks cost \$16, then each notebook costs $x, so \(4x = 16\).
In a Nutshell
Equations with variables help you solve unknowns in many situations.