Solve for x, one step at a time
From the missing number a first grader finds to six-step equations for middle school — the number of steps is yours to choose.
Undo the last step first.
An equations worksheet generator, printable as a PDF. Choose how many steps each equation has, from one (6 + x = 39) to six, and whether it uses only adding and subtracting or all four operations; numbers go to 20, 100 or 1,000. Every equation is built backwards from a whole-number answer, so undoing it step by step always works out. Each one gets a box of graph paper to work in, and the answer key shows the undoing, not just x. For the youngest, a box takes the place of x: 6 + □ = 39.
1 token a sheet, fewer in batches.
US Letter PDF — prints on any home printer.
Look
Find what was done to x, in order.
Undo
Undo the last step first: subtract to undo adding, divide to undo multiplying.
Check
Put your answer back in. Does it make the equation true?
Steps in each equation
One step: 6 + x = 39, x − 25 = 60, 88 − x = 33.
Operations
Numbers up to
Unknown
Room to work
Your worksheet lands here — download, print, or email it.