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y=2x+4
3x+y=9
We can substitute y in the second equation with the first equation since y = y.
3x+y=9
3x+(2x+4)=9
5x+4=9
5x=5
x=1
This value of x can then be used to find y by substituting 1 with x e.g. in the first equation
y=2x+4
y=2⋅1+4
y=6
You can use the substitution method even if both equations of the linear system are in standard
form. Just begin by solving one of the equations for one of its variables.
Video lesson
Solve the linear system using the substitution method
2y−4x=2
y=−x+4
Elimination Method »
Solving System of Linear Equations: (lesson 1 of 5)
Substitution Method
The substitution method is most useful for systems of 2 equations in 2 unknowns. The main
idea here is that we solve one of the equations for one of the unknowns, and then substitute the
result into the other equation.
Step 1:
Step 2:
Step 3:
Step 4:
Solution:
Step 1: Solve one of the equations for either x = or y = . We will solve second equation for y.
Step 2: Substitute the solution from step 1 into the second equation.
Step 3: Solve this new equation.
Note: It does not matter which equation we choose first and which second. Just choose the most
convenient one first!
Solution:
Step 1: Solve one of the equations for either x = or y =. Since the coefficient of y in equation 2
is -1, it is easiest to solve for y in equation 2.
Step 2: Substitute the solution from step 1 into the second equation.
Step 3: Solve this new equation ( for x ).
Level 1
Level 2