PROBLEM SOLVING

One Step Equations

Learn the reliable method for one step equations, then apply it to 11+ exam-style questions.

1 · WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The idea

A one-step equation is solved using one inverse operation.

Picture itFollow what happens to the unknown
2 · THE METHOD

Follow these steps

  1. Identify the operation applied to the unknown.
  2. Apply its inverse to both sides.
  3. Substitute the result to check the equality.
3 · WORKED EXAMPLES

See the method in action

Example 1

A number increased by 8 is 14. What is the number?

  1. Subtract 8 to undo the increase: 14 − 8 = 6.
  2. Check by adding it back: 6 + 8 = 14.
Answer: 6
Example 2

A number divided by 5 is 5. What is the number?

  1. If n÷5=5, multiply both sides by 5: n=5×5=25.
Answer: 25
4 · ELEVENSPRINT TIP

A useful shortcut

Substitute the result to check the equality.

5 · COMMON MISTAKES

Watch out for these

6 · TRY IT YOURSELF

Three fresh questions

Ready to check the method? You will get three fresh, validated questions.