What is an equation?

An equation is a mathematical statement that two amounts are equal, joined by an equals sign (=). Whatever is on the left of the sign has the same value as whatever is on the right. Many equations contain a variable you have to work out.

Examples

• 5 + 2 = 7 is an equation.
• In x + 3 = 10, x must be 7.
• 12 ÷ 4 = 3 is an equation.

Quick facts

• The equals sign means 'is the same value as', not 'the answer is'.
• To keep an equation balanced, do the same thing to both sides.