Supports +, -, *, /, parentheses, and decimals. One variable only: x.
How this calculator solving for x works
This tool solves linear equations in one variable. In plain English, that means equations where x is not squared, cubed, or inside roots/exponents. You type your equation, click solve, and the calculator isolates x.
Example: if you enter 2x + 3 = 11, the calculator computes the value of x that makes both sides equal. In this case, x = 4.
What kinds of equations are supported?
- Standard form: ax + b = c
- Parentheses: 5(x - 2) = 3x + 8
- Fractions with division: x/4 + 7 = 10
- Decimals: 0.5x - 1.2 = 2.8
If your equation is nonlinear (for example, x² or 1/x), this calculator will tell you it is outside scope.
Step-by-step method to solve for x manually
1) Move all x terms to one side
Collect terms so the equation becomes easier to read.
2) Move constants to the opposite side
Use addition/subtraction to isolate the x expression.
3) Divide by the coefficient of x
If the equation is 7x = 21, divide both sides by 7 to get x = 3.
Worked examples
Example A: 2x + 3 = 11
Subtract 3 from both sides: 2x = 8. Divide by 2: x = 4.
Example B: 5(x - 2) = 3x + 8
Expand left side: 5x - 10 = 3x + 8. Subtract 3x: 2x - 10 = 8. Add 10: 2x = 18. Divide by 2: x = 9.
Example C: x/4 + 7 = 10
Subtract 7: x/4 = 3. Multiply by 4: x = 12.
Common mistakes when solving for x
- Forgetting to apply operations to both sides.
- Sign errors with negatives.
- Dropping parentheses during expansion.
- Trying linear methods on nonlinear equations.
Quick FAQ
Can this solve equations with x on both sides?
Yes. As long as the final equation is linear in x.
Can this solve quadratic equations?
No. This page is specifically a linear calculator solving for x.
What if there is no solution?
The calculator can detect inconsistent equations (no solution) and identities (infinitely many solutions).