Combine all of the stand-alone numbers on each side of the equation. You can do this according to the indicated mathematical functions that relate to the numbers. For example, multiple numbers on either side of the equal sign may be related by an addition or multiplication sign. Perform these basic mathematical functions according to the order of operations.
Rewrite the equation after performing the indicated simple operations. One side of the equation will now contain a single number, while the other side will contain the variable and a number related to the variable by an additional mathematical operation. For example, the equation "X + 5 - 2 = 4 + 7" would read "X + 3 = 11" once calculated through and rewritten.
Perform the necessary addition and subtraction calculations on each side of the equation. If numbers are added to the variable, subtract these values from each side of the equation. If numbers are subtracted from the variable, add these values to each side of the equation. For example, with the equation "X + 3 = 11" subtract 3 from each side of the equation. This gives you the solution of "X = 8."
Perform any remaining multiplication and division calculations on each side of the equation until the variable is left alone on one side of the equal sign. If numbers are multiplied to the variable, divide each side of the equation by the multiplied value. If a number is divided into the variable, multiply each side of the equation by this value. For example, to solve the equation "2X + 3 = 11" first subtract 3 from each side, giving you "2X = 8." Then, divide each side by 2 to reach the solution of "X = 4."