Advanced Algebra: Practice

Now try the following question on your own.

Select the correct answer and then click Continue.

This problem must be solved algebraically, so English to algebra translation skills will come in handy. We can begin by setting up our equation:

3x divided by 6:
is:
less than:
the reciprocal of 2y:

Now we can simplify our equation and solve for x and y, or, if we're lucky, for :

On algebraic equations, it's sometimes necessary to solve for one variable (i.e. x), and then use that value to find the other (i.e. y). This was not the case this time; the equation simplified to the complicated term for which we were searching. If the one-variable, two-variable approach were the only way to handle this problem, it would be a time-consuming question. On complicated equations, always keep in mind what you must find to answer the question, and try to rework your equation to fit it. There is often a key step that will reveal the problem and get you through the question quickly.