Solve Equations with Fraction or Decimal Coefficients: example 8.37

Solve: $\frac{1}{8} x + \frac{1}{2} = \frac{1}{4} .$

Work it out on paper first. Then open the solution one step at a time, and stop as soon as you can finish on your own.

Your turn

The book's Try It right after this example: same idea, new numbers. Only the answer is given.

Solve: $\frac{1}{4} x + \frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{8} .$

How did it go?

Find the least common denominator of all the fractions in the equation.
Multiply both sides of the equation by that LCD, 8. This clears the fractions.
Use the Distributive Property.
Simplify — and notice, no more fractions!
Solve using the General Strategy for Solving Linear Equations.
Simplify.
Check: Let $x = −2$

Find the least common denominator of all the fractions in the equation.
Multiply both sides of the equation by that LCD, 8. This clears the fractions.
Use the Distributive Property.
Simplify — and notice, no more fractions!
Solve using the General Strategy for Solving Linear Equations.
Simplify.
Check: Let $x = −2$