Question

Gwen wants to solve the system of linear equations shown, by elimination.

Which is her BEST first step?


Multiply the first equation by 3.

Divide the first equation by 2.

Multiply the second equation by 3.

Divide the second equation by 2.

Answer 1

I don’t see the system of equations in your message — I need the two equations to choose the best first step.

Meanwhile, here’s how to decide which option is best:
- For elimination you want to make the coefficients of one variable equal in magnitude (and preferably opposite in sign).
- Pick the operation that produces that match with the smallest integer coefficients (use the LCM of the two coefficients).
- Prefer multiplying over dividing if dividing would introduce fractions.
- If one of the equations already has a coefficient that is a multiple of the other, multiply the other equation to match it.

Paste the two equations and I’ll pick the best first step and show the next steps.