GCSE Maths: Linear Equations
Solve GCSE Maths linear equations with step-by-step practice, including equations with brackets, fractions and unknowns on both sides. AQA, Edexcel, OCR and Eduqas.
AlgebraFoundation & HigherAQA · Edexcel · OCR · Eduqas
What you need to know
The concepts examiners test on linear equations, and what each one is really asking.
Solving one-step equations
Equations with brackets
Equations with unknowns on both sides
Equations involving fractions
Forming and solving equations from word problems
Where marks get lost
The exam technique that separates a correct method from a correct answer.
- Whatever you do to one side, do to the other
- Expand brackets before collecting like terms
- Check your answer by substituting back into the equation
Linear Equations questions students ask
How do I solve an equation with unknowns on both sides?
Move all the terms with the unknown to one side and all the number terms to the other. E.g. 5x + 3 = 2x + 12 → 3x = 9 → x = 3.
How do I solve an equation with fractions?
Multiply every term in the equation by the denominator (or LCD if there are multiple fractions) to clear the fractions, then solve normally.