Make an equation system based on the problem
eg. a is the first number and b is the seond number
An equation for "The sum of two numbers is 53" is
⇒ a + b = 53
An equation for "twice the first number minus three times the second number is 26"
⇒ 2a - 3b = 26
Solve the equations by elimination and subtitution method
Eliminate a to find the value of b
a + b = 53 (multiplied by 2)
2a - 3b = 26
--------------------------------------
2a + 2b = 106
2a - 3b = 26
------------------- - (substract)
5b = 80
b = 80/5
b = 16
Subtitute the value of b to one of the equations
a + b = 53
a + 16 = 53
a = 53 - 16
a = 37
The numbers are 16 and 37