Linear equation
Solve 2x+5=17
Method: Undo operations while keeping both sides equal.
- 1Subtract 5 from both sides.
- 2Divide both sides by 2.
- 3Substitute x=6 into the original equation to verify.
Final answer
Free online calculator
Algebra Solver
Solve equations, systems, polynomials, and algebraic expressions with clear step-by-step explanations.
Step-by-step solutions
Clear, detailed explanations
Instant results
Accurate answers in seconds
Free to use
No sign-up required
How to Use the Algebra Solver
1
Enter your problem
Type an equation, expression, polynomial, or system.
2
Choose the method
The solver identifies whether to solve, simplify, expand, or factor.
3
Review the solution
See the answer, verification status, and each available algebra step.
Example
How the Algebra Solver Chooses a Method
Solve or transform an algebra problem while seeing the legal operation used at each step.
The solver identifies whether the input is an equation or an expression, then selects equation solving, factoring, expansion, or simplification. Proposed solutions are checked in the original equation whenever verification is available.
Supported problem types
- Linear and quadratic equations
- Polynomial factoring and expansion
- Simplification of common algebraic expressions
Limits and assumptions
- An expression without an equals sign is simplified rather than solved for a variable.
- Domain restrictions from denominators and radicals must be retained.
Worked Algebra Solver Examples
Each example names the method, shows the ordered reasoning, and keeps the final answer separate so you can check your own work.
Factor a quadratic
Factor x^2-9
Method: Recognize a difference of squares.
- 1Write 9 as 3^2.
- 2Apply a^2-b^2=(a-b)(a+b).
- 3Expand the factors to check.
Final answer
Simplify a rational expression
Simplify (x^2-1)/(x-1)
Method: Factor before canceling.
- 1Factor x^2-1 as (x-1)(x+1).
- 2Cancel the common factor when x is not 1.
- 3Keep the original restriction x not equal to 1.
Final answer
Learn This Topic
What the Algebra Solver Helps You Understand
Solve equations, systems, polynomials, and algebraic expressions with clear step-by-step explanations.
Learning focus 1
Type an equation, expression, polynomial, or system.
Learning focus 2
The solver identifies whether to solve, simplify, expand, or factor.
Learning focus 3
See the answer, verification status, and each available algebra step.
Input tips
- • Type an equation, expression, polynomial, or system.
- • Algebra Solver supports solving linear and quadratic equations, systems of equations, factoring, expanding, simplifying, and inequalities.
Common mistakes to avoid
- • Changing one side of an equation without applying the same operation to the other side.
- • Accepting a transformed answer without checking it in the original problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What algebra operations are supported?
Algebra Solver supports solving linear and quadratic equations, systems of equations, factoring, expanding, simplifying, and inequalities.
How do I enter a system of equations?
Write both equations in one line connected by 'and', for example: 'Solve x + y = 5 and x − y = 1'.
Are the solutions verified?
Yes. For equations, the solver substitutes solutions back into the original equation and reports the verification status.
Is Calculus Solver free?
Yes. The core solver is free to use directly in your browser with no subscription required.
Do I need an account?
No. Calculus Solver does not require an account or login. Your history is stored locally in your browser.
Can I use it on mobile?
Yes. The interface is responsive and works on phones, tablets, and desktops.
How accurate are the answers?
Answers are generated by a combination of AI reasoning and local symbolic verification. We recommend independently checking important results.
What is the difference between solve and simplify?
Solving finds values that make an equation true; simplifying rewrites an expression in an equivalent, usually shorter form.
How are algebra answers checked?
When possible, each proposed solution is substituted into the original equation rather than only checking a transformed form.