💡 Learn it properly · 1 min read
Explain it out loud
If you can explain a step to a friend (or to yourself), you really understand it.
Teaching is the best way to learn
When you explain a method out loud, you quickly find the parts you don't really understand, because you get stuck on them.
You don't need an audience. Explain to a friend, a younger brother or sister, or even an empty chair.
Say the 'why', not just the 'what'
Don't just say 'I moved the 5 to the other side'. Say 'I subtracted 5 from both sides, so the equation stays balanced'.
Explaining 3x − 4 = 11
- Add 4 to both sides to undo the − 4: 3x = 15.
- Divide both sides by 3 to undo the × 3: x = 5.
- Check: 3 × 5 − 4 = 11 ✓