Math Dictionary / Elimination Method
Elimination Method
The elimination method solves a system by adding or subtracting equations to remove a variable.
AlgebraGrade 8Algebra 1GEDSATACT
What it means
After one variable is eliminated, solve for the other variable.
Also called: linear combination
Examples
| Add equations when opposite terms cancel |
| Subtract equations when matching terms cancel |
| Then substitute back to find the other variable |
Common mistake
Make sure the eliminated terms have the same coefficient with opposite signs, or make them match first.
Try one
Question: In x + y = 7 and x – y = 3, what variable is eliminated if you add the equations?
Show answer
The y terms cancel.