Mastering Algebra: Solving the Equation 5(x - 1) = 20

Are you ready to tackle some algebra? It can seem daunting at first, but once you grasp the fundamental concepts, equations like 5(x - 1) = 20 become much easier! Let's break it down step by step and discover how to solve for ( x ) while also brushing up on some essential math skills that will come in handy, particularly for your upcoming College Math Placement Test.

Breaking It Down: The First Steps

So, what do we have here? We’re tasked with solving the equation ( 5(x - 1) = 20 ). You know what? The first thing to remember is to isolate that variable, ( x ). We're aiming to simplify the equation, and a great place to start is by getting rid of the 5 that's multiplied with the parentheses.

Let’s simplify:

[ x - 1 = \frac{20}{5} ]

This step essentially divides both sides of the equation by 5, allowing us to clarify what we need to solve. After simplifying that right side, we find:

You got it:

[ x - 1 = 4 ]

Time to Solve for ( x )

Alright, now for the fun part—solving for ( x )! It’s all about mastering that addition and subtraction now. To isolate ( x ), we'll add 1 to both sides of our new equation. Here’s how it looks:

[ x = 4 + 1 ]

This straightforward move consolidates our equation into a single, slick solution. And when we simplify that, we discover:

[ x = 5 ]

How cool is that?

Why This Matters

Understanding how to work through such equations is crucial, especially as you head into a college math placement test. It’s not just about knowing the answer—it’s about demonstrating a deeper understanding of the processes at play. With each problem you solve, you’re building the foundation for your future academic endeavors. Plus, strong algebra skills will be a lifesaver whether you're balancing budgets, calculating statistics, or even tackling those pesky math classes!

Practice Makes Perfect

Remember that practice is key in math. Don’t just stop here—try a few more like the equation we just solved, and before you know it, you'll feel like a math whiz! You might even consider using online resources or math software to give your skills a boost. Trust me, they can make practice sessions engaging and help you spot areas needing improvement.

To wrap it up, the solution to our equation ( 5(x - 1) = 20 ) is clearly ( x = 5 ). You've gone through the steps logically, and that’s something to be proud of! So, are you ready to take on your math placement test with more confidence? Remember, every equation is a puzzle waiting for you to uncover its secrets!