Combine Like Terms With Negatives, Then Solve
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"Combine Like Terms With Negatives, Then Solve" is written for 8th Grade (Ages 13-14), and it covers Common Core 8.EE.C.7.B. A 7th grader who is already steady on algebra can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.


8th grade math worksheet: combine like terms with negative coefficients and solve 10 equations for n, like 4n − 9 − 7n = 12. Answer key included. Part of our multi-step equations algebra collection. Aligned to Common Core standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Work through the sheets in order, since each adds one new step. Use Solve Multi-Step Equations and Check Each Answer to build the habit of checking, and give the checkpoint as a review.
What students will practice
- Students will combine like terms that carry negative signs.
- Students will solve 10 equations for n, such as −2n + 5 − 6n + 1 = −26.
- Students will track each sign as terms are grouped together.


Solve Equations by Combining Like Terms First


Solve Equations With the Distributive Property


Distribute a Negative Factor, Then Solve


Solve Multi-Step Equations With Fraction Coefficients


Solve Multi-Step Equations With Decimal Coefficients


Multi-Step Equations With Fraction Solutions


Solve Multi-Step Equations and Check Each Answer

Multi-Step Equations Checkpoint, Mixed Types
Curriculum Links
Common Core State Standards
Expressions and Equations · 8th Grade
Standard: Solve linear equations with rational number coefficients, including equations whose solutions require expanding expressions using the distributive property and collecting like terms.
View all 8.EE.C.7.B worksheets →Find this in the curriculum
Browse the grade, subject, and topic this belongs to.
FAQ
How do I use this multi-step equations worksheet?
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Work through the sheets in order, since each adds one new step. Use Solve Multi-Step Equations and Check Each Answer to build the habit of checking, and give the checkpoint as a review.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Combine like terms with negative coefficients and solve 10 equations for n, like 4n − 9 − 7n = 12. The directions on the page read: Combine like terms, watching each sign. Then solve for n and show your work. An answer key is included.
Can I use this multi-step equations worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 8th grade algebra, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
What are the steps to solve a multi-step equation?
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Distribute to clear parentheses, combine like terms on each side, then undo addition or subtraction and finally multiplication or division. Checking the answer in both sides catches mistakes. Solve Multi-Step Equations and Check Each Answer has a Left and Right line for this.
What happens when you distribute a negative number?
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Every term inside the parentheses changes sign. So −2(3x − 4) becomes −6x + 8, and −(x − 16) becomes −x + 16. Distribute a Negative Factor, Then Solve practices this on 10 equations.
How do you solve an equation with decimals?
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Multiply every term on both sides by 10 for tenths so the coefficients become whole numbers. Then 0.4x + 2.6 = 1.2x − 3.8 becomes 4x + 26 = 12x − 38. Solve the new equation the usual way.
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Solve Equations by Combining Like Terms First


Solve Equations With the Distributive Property


Distribute a Negative Factor, Then Solve


Solve Multi-Step Equations With Fraction Coefficients


Solve Multi-Step Equations With Decimal Coefficients


Multi-Step Equations With Fraction Solutions


Solve Multi-Step Equations and Check Each Answer

Multi-Step Equations Checkpoint, Mixed Types