AlgebraFoundation and Higher

Solving equations: GCSE maths practice with worked answers

Show Working has 4 kinds of solving equations question for GCSE Maths, for Foundation and Higher. Every question is new each time and comes with the working, step by step.

Solving an equation means finding the value of the letter that makes both sides equal. GCSE questions build from one-step equations to equations with brackets and with the letter on both sides.

Coming soon to the App Store

Worked example 1: solve one-step equations

Solve x + 5 = 1.

The equation is x + 5 = 1. To get x on its own, take 5 away from both sides.
x = 1 − 5 = −4.

Answer x = −4

01 / What's covered4 kinds of question

Solving equations questions in the app

Each kind makes fresh questions every time, so you can practise as often as you like.

Solve one-step equationsBoth tiers
Solve two-step equationsBoth tiers
Equations with x on both sidesBoth tiers
Equations with bracketsBoth tiers

Worked example 2: equations with brackets

Solve 7(x + 6) = 2(x + 6).

Expand both brackets: 7x + 42 = 2x + 12.
Take 2x from both sides: 5x + 42 = 12.
Move the number: 5x = 12 − 42 = −30.
Divide both sides by 5: x = −30 ÷ 5 = −6.

Answer x = −6

A common mistake

Doing something to one side only. Whatever you do to one side of an equation, you must do to the other.

02 / Practise itiPhone and iPad

Practise solving equations in Show Working

In the app, open Topics and choose Solving equations for ten fresh questions. Ask for a hint if you are stuck, and open the working to see the method one step at a time.