Question

Solve the following equation: 6y – 20 = 2y – 4.

Answer 1

6y-20=2y-4

Since 2y contains the variable to solve for, move it to the left-hand side of the equation by subtracting 2y from both sides.
6y-20-2y=-4

Since 6y and -2y are like terms, add -2y to 6y to get 4y.
4y-20=-4

Since -20 does not contain the variable to solve for, move it to the right-hand side of the equation by adding 20 to both sides.
4y=20-4

Subtract 4 from 20 to get 16.
4y=16

Divide each term in the equation by 4.
(4y)/(4)=(16)/(4)

Simplify the left-hand side of the equation by canceling the common factors.
y=(16)/(4)

Simplify the right-hand side of the equation by simplifying each term.
y=4

Answer 2

6y-2y = -4+20
4y = 16
y=4