Math Dictionary / Substitution Method

Substitution Method

The substitution method solves a system by replacing one variable with an equivalent expression.

AlgebraGrade 8Algebra 1GEDSATACT

What it means

It is useful when one equation is already solved for a variable.

Also called: substitution

Examples

If y = x + 2, replace y in the other equation with x + 2
Solve for one variable first
Then substitute back

Common mistake

After finding one variable, substitute back to find the other.

Try one

Question: If y = x + 1 and x = 4, what is y?

Show answer

5.

Related terms

Practice this skill

Open a related Effortless Math lesson or practice tool.