Manipulating Variables and Solving Equations

Algebra helps you generalize and solve problems using variables. You'll encounter expressions, equations, and inequalities.

Key Concepts

• Simplifying algebraic expressions
• Solving linear equations and inequalities
• Substitution and factoring

Why It Matters

Algebra is used in budgeting, predicting trends, and even figuring out how long it will take to reach a savings goal.

Problem-Solving Approach

• Isolate the variable using inverse operations.
• Check your solutions by plugging them back into the original equation.
• Watch for extraneous solutions in inequalities.

GRE Focus

On the GRE, you may need to interpret word problems and write equations that model real situations.