Calculator form
Choose the equation pattern, enter integers, and solve the unknown with clear balance steps.
Formula used
These equations are solved by isolating the unknown with inverse operations. You keep the equation balanced by doing the same action to both sides.
| Equation form | Inverse idea | Resulting formula |
|---|---|---|
| x + a = b | Subtract a from both sides | x = b - a |
| x - a = b | Add a to both sides | x = b + a |
| a + x = b | Subtract a from both sides | x = b - a |
| a - x = b | Rearrange and change the sign | x = a - b |
In each case, substitute the solved value back into the original equation to confirm both sides are equal.
How to use this calculator
- Select the matching equation form.
- Enter integer values for a and b.
- Choose the unknown symbol you want displayed.
- Set the graph span for the plotted range.
- Add an optional guess to self-check your answer.
- Press Solve Equation to view the solution above the form.
- Review the worked steps, graph, and verification.
- Use the export buttons to save the result.
Example data table
| # | Equation type | Example equation | Inverse move | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | x + a = b | x + 6 = 14 | Subtract 6 | x = 8 |
| 2 | x - a = b | x - 4 = 9 | Add 4 | x = 13 |
| 3 | a + x = b | 7 + x = 2 | Subtract 7 | x = -5 |
| 4 | a - x = b | 10 - x = 3 | Compute 10 - 3 | x = 7 |
| 5 | x + a = b | x + (-9) = 1 | Subtract -9 | x = 10 |
| 6 | a - x = b | -2 - x = 5 | Compute -2 - 5 | x = -7 |
Frequently asked questions
1) What kinds of equations can this solve?
It solves one-step integer equations using addition or subtraction. Supported forms are x + a = b, x - a = b, a + x = b, and a - x = b.
2) Can I use negative integers?
Yes. Enter positive or negative integers for both known values. The solver keeps the signs through every step and verification check.
3) Why are inverse operations important?
Inverse operations undo the added or subtracted value. They help isolate the unknown while keeping both sides of the equation balanced.
4) Why does the calculator verify the answer?
Verification substitutes the solved integer into the original equation. If both sides match, the result is confirmed as correct.
5) What does the graph show?
The graph compares the left side expression with the constant right side over several integers. Their intersection marks the balancing solution.
6) What is the optional guess field for?
It lets you test your own answer before checking the solver. The calculator compares your guess with the exact integer solution.
7) Is this suitable for school practice?
Yes. It is useful for homework, revision, lesson demonstrations, and self-checking because it shows the equation, steps, balance, and final answer.
8) Can I save the worked result?
Yes. Use CSV for spreadsheet-style records and PDF for printable summaries that include the formula, steps, and verification details.