How it works
One move undoes each equation. Free sheets mix y + 2 = 11, n − 3 = 8, 10x = 70 and x/5 = 13; Sheet type adds 20 − x = 8, negatives, fractions, decimals and a check line.
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Do the opposite to both sides
Addition is undone by subtraction and multiplication by division. For x + 8 = 21, take 8 from both sides: x = 13. For x/4 = 9, multiply both sides by 4: x = 36. The key prints that one line, 21 − 8 = 13, then the answer.
Which sheet to print first
Start with Addition equations: x + 8 = 21 and Subtraction equations: x − 6 = 14, the addition and subtraction one step equations worksheet pair. Then Multiply and divide mixed. Subtract the unknown: 20 − x = 8 comes last, because it breaks the do-the-opposite habit.
- Ask for the check before the answer: 7 × 8 = 56 proves x = 8 in one line.
- Common Core 6.EE.B.7 keeps grade 6 to x + p = q and px = q from 0 up; negatives are grade 7.
Questions and answers
Where is the adding and subtracting equations worksheet?
Choose Add and subtract, the letter anywhere in Sheet type. It mixes 18 + x = 30, 20 = n − 10 and y − 36 = 12, so the letter is not always first and some answers sit on the left.
Why is 20 − x = 8 not solved by adding 8?
The x is being taken away, so adding 8 gives 28, and 20 − 28 is not 8. Ask what comes off 20 to leave 8: x = 20 − 8 = 12. Check: 20 − 12 = 8.
Can I save a one step equations worksheet as a PDF?
Yes. Press Print and pick Save as PDF in your browser's print window. The answer key prints on its own page after the sheet, so leave it out by unticking Answer key first.