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How to Use Representations for Equations

For those just beginning in math, seeing equations with letters instead of numbers in them can be confusing. An expression can be something such as 2y+1. Equations in algebra are two expressions put together, such as 2y+1=1, in which both 2y+1 and 1 are expressions, and the equals sign makes it an equation. Using representations, such as "y" in the aforementioned example, to create equations is an essential building block in understanding algebra.

Instructions

- 1
  Write down a math problem that is easy to solve. For example, you could use 2*2+1=5.
- 2
  Choose a number from the problem to substitute. Substitution is when you take a number and replace it with something else. Insert a "y" for the number, such as 2*y+1=5.
- 3
  Solve the equation to make sure each sign is equal. Follow the order of operations. First Multiply 2 and y to get 2y. Now subtract 1 to the other side of the equation, to isolate y. The problem now appears as 2y=4. Each y is equal to 2, which was the original number before it was substituted, meaning the equation is true.

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