Literal equations contain multiple variables, and the SAT asks you to isolate one of them. Think of it like solving a regular equation — except your answer is an expression with variables, not a number.
The Core Strategy
Treat every other variable like a number. Use inverse operations to isolate the target variable, step by step.
Example 1: Solve for :
You just divided both sides by . That's it.
Multi-Step Rearrangements
Example 2: Solve for :
Example 3: Solve for :
Multiply both sides by 3:
Divide by :
Formulas with Addition and Subtraction
Example 4: Solve for :
Multiply both sides by 2:
Divide by :
Subtract :
When the Variable Appears Twice
If the target variable appears in multiple places, collect it on one side and factor.
Example 5: Solve for :
SAT-Style Question
Example 6: The formula for converting Fahrenheit to Celsius is . Which of the following correctly expresses in terms of ?
Multiply both sides by :
Add 32:
Practice Problems
Problem 1: Solve for :
Solution
Problem 2: Solve for :
Solution
Problem 3: Solve for :
Solution
Key Takeaways
- Treat all other variables as if they were numbers
- Use inverse operations in the same order as regular equations
- If the target variable shows up more than once, factor it out
- Always double-check by mentally substituting a simple number
- These questions are free points once you see the pattern
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