How do I solve simultaneous equations?

The elimination method
2x + 3y = 83x + 2y = 7
First we multiply one or both of the equations so that one of their like terms share the same coefficients.
2x + 3y = 8 (multiply by 3) -> 6x + 9y = 243x + 2y = 7 (multiply by 2) -> 6x + 4y = 14
Now we can subtract the bottom equation from the top
5y = 10y=2
we then input this value into a previous formula2x + 3y = 82x = 8 - 3(2)2x = 2
x = 1
Alternatively
For questions where the elimination method does not leave one variable, such as:
x2 + y2 = 25y - 3x = 13
You should rearrange one of the equations in terms of one of its variables and then apply functions to it, such that it looks similar to the same term in the other equation.
y = 13 + 3x -> y2 = 9x2 + 78x + 169
Then you should substitute this equation into the other.
x2 + (9x2 + 78x + 169) = 25
Then simplify, and use the value found to find any other values, by inputting it into the original equations.
10x2 + 78x + 144 = 0 --> 5x2 + 39x + 72 = 0(5x + )(x + ) = 0 --> (5x + 24)(x + 3) = 05x + 24 = 0 x + 3 = 0x = -24/5 = -4.8 x = -3y = 13 +3x = 13 + 3(-3) = 13 - 9 = 4
y = 13 + 3x = 13 + 3(-24/5) = 65/5 - 72/5 = -7/5
x = -4.8, -3 y = 4, -7.5

JG
Answered by Joe G. Maths tutor

4164 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I know how many solutions a quadratic equation has?


The point P has coordinates (3, 4) The point Q has coordinates (a, b) A line perpendicular to PQ is given by the equation 3x + 2y = 7 Find an expression for b in terms of a.


How do you find the next number in a given sequence?


Washing powder is sold in two sizes: Bag 1 is 600 grams for £3.30. Bag 2 is 1500 grams and usually costs £9.60 but currently has 15% off. Which is better value?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning