Imagine an equation as a set of scales. The scales will stay in balance as long as the same operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication or division) is applied to both sides.

Learn how to solve equations with examples when 𝒙 is on one side with this BBC Bitesize Maths article. Maths revision for KS3 students between the ages of 11 and 14.

PEMDAS stands for parentheses, exponents, multiplication and division, and addition and subtraction. It demonstrates the right order in which to solve a math equation like this one.

While it seems simple, the order of operations throws many off. Solving this requires a careful understanding of how multiplication and addition should be approached.