Specify the inequality equation. As an example, use:
2x + 3 > 7x + 4
Solve the equation to combine like terms. Be sure to follow the order of operation to manipulate equations. The proper order is reflected in the acronym PEMDAS, which stands for parentheses, exponents, multiplication and division, and then addition and subtraction.
Use the example 2x + 3 > 7x +4. Subtract 7x from both sides to get the x terms on the left side of the equation.
2x + 3 - 7x > 7x + 4 - 7x
-5x + 3 > 4
Subtract 3 from both sides to get the constant term on the right side.
-5x + 3 - 3> 4 - 3
-5x > 1
Note: This example addresses property #1 where you add and subtract numbers from both sides of the inequality.
Solve the equation to get x on the left side of the equation by itself. Continuing with the example, divide both sides by 5.
-5x/5 > 1/5
-x > 1/5
Multiply both sides by -1 to convert -x to x. Multiplying through by a negative number changes the inequality sign.
-x (-1) > 1/5(-1)
x < -1/5
Note 1: This example addresses property #3.