Put the steps in order. 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th .Get Constant on other side of equal sign (+ or -) Combine Like Terms on EACH side of equations. Get rid of Coefficient (divide or multiply) Get Variable on one side of equal sign (+ or - ) Get rid of any grouping symbols -({[]}) - use Distributive Property Get Constant on other side of equal sign (+ or -) Combine Like Terms on EACH side of equations. Get rid of Coefficient (divide or multiply) Get Variable on one side of equal sign (+ or - ) Get rid of any grouping symbols -({[]}) - use Distributive property