Question

How do I solve 1/2 in minus 3 equals 5 ​

Answer 1

n = 16

Explanation:

`(1)/(2)n-3=5\\\\(1)/(2)n=8 \qquad\text{add 3}\\\\n=16 \qquad\text{multiply by 2}`

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In general, you identify the terms containing the variable. Then figure out what is being done to the variable. Here, it is multiplied by 1/2 and then 3 is subtracted. You undo these operations in reverse order.

Undo the subtraction of 3 by adding 3. Undo the multiplication by 1/2 by multiplying by its inverse, 2. Of course, the rules of equality tell you that anything you do to one side of the equation must also be done to the other side.

You can consider it as "unwrapping the package". You start at the outside, the last operation applied, and work your way in.