Solving Equations for a Specific Variable n When

Solving Equations for a Specific Variable

n When solving for a specific variable, follow the same rules as when you are solving “regular” equations. ¨ Begin by identifying the variable you are solving for. ¨ Then, SIMPLIFY the equation. n Remember – get rid of fractions, parentheses or like terms. ¨ Next, ISOLATE that variable by “undoing” the operations around that variable. n Get all of the same variables on the same side of the equal sign. ¨ Then, SOLVE for the variable.

Like this…… 1. Solve for d: • • Mark the variable you are solving for. “Undo” the operation that “connects” the ‘d’ to the other numbers or variables. • • 2. Solve for n: What operation connects the 5 to the c 2 and to the d? Multiplication – so what is it’s opposite? Division • So divide both sides by everything in front of the d. •

n n If I’m solving for “w” I want all of my “w’s” on the LEFT side of the equal sign and all the “u’s” on the RIGHT…. . so ISOLATE n Now SOLVE for “w”. 3. Solve for w:

n n If I’m solving for “u” I want all of my “u’s” on the LEFT side of the equal sign and all the “w’s” on the RIGHT…. . so ISOLATE n Now SOLVE for “u”. 4. Solve for u:

5. Solve for A: 6. Solve for A: n n n Simplify – get rid of the parentheses then the fraction in this case. Now mark your variable and ISOLATE. And SOLVE for “A”

7. Solve for c: 8. Solve for b: n n n Simplify – get rid of the parentheses then the fraction in this case. Now mark your variable and ISOLATE. And SOLVE for “A”

9. Solve for h: 10. Solve for L: