Calculator
Example Data Table
| Expression | Operation | Answer | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3x + 7 < 19 | Subtract 7, divide by 3 | x < 4 | (-∞, 4) |
| -2x + 5 ≥ 13 | Subtract 5, divide by -2 | x ≤ -4 | (-∞, -4] |
| 4x - 8 ≤ 12 | Add 8, divide by 4 | x ≤ 5 | (-∞, 5] |
| -5x - 3 > 22 | Add 3, divide by -5 | x < -5 | (-∞, -5) |
Formula Used
The calculator solves inequalities written as:
ax + b < c, ax + b ≤ c, ax + b > c, or ax + b ≥ c
First subtract b from both sides:
ax inequality-sign c - b
Then divide by a:
x inequality-sign (c - b) / a
If a is negative, the inequality sign reverses. This is the most important rule.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the coefficient of the variable in the a field.
- Enter the added or subtracted constant in the b field.
- Select the inequality sign from the menu.
- Enter the right side value in the c field.
- Choose a decimal precision for rounded answers.
- Enter a test value if you want verification.
- Press the solve button to view steps and notation.
- Use the download buttons to save your result.
Solving Two Step Linear Inequalities Guide
What This Calculator Does
A two step linear inequality has one variable, one coefficient, one constant, and one comparison sign. This calculator solves that structure with detailed steps. It supports less than, less than or equal to, greater than, and greater than or equal to signs. You can enter positive, negative, decimal, or whole number values.
Why Steps Matter
Inequalities look similar to equations, but one rule changes the process. When you divide by a negative number, the inequality sign must reverse. This tool highlights that rule, so the final answer is easier to trust. It also shows interval notation and set notation. These formats are common in algebra classes.
Understanding the Input Form
The input follows the form ax plus b compared with c. The a value is the coefficient beside the variable. The b value is the constant on the same side as the variable. The c value is the number on the opposite side. This structure keeps the calculation clear and avoids confusing terms.
Advanced Checking
A test value helps confirm the answer. The calculator places that value into the original inequality. Then it checks whether the statement is true or false. This is useful when checking homework, preparing lessons, or reviewing algebra rules. You can also adjust rounding precision for cleaner decimal answers.
Using the Export Options
The CSV option saves the input and answer as spreadsheet data. The PDF option creates a simple report with the final inequality, interval notation, set notation, and solving steps. These exports help students, tutors, and teachers keep records of worked problems.
Best Practice
Always rewrite your problem in the same form before entering values. Check the coefficient sign carefully. If the coefficient is negative, expect the final sign to flip after division.
FAQs
What is a two step linear inequality?
It is an inequality that usually needs two operations to solve. You first undo addition or subtraction. Then you undo multiplication or division.
When do I reverse the inequality sign?
Reverse the sign when multiplying or dividing both sides by a negative number. This rule keeps the inequality statement true.
Can this calculator solve decimal inequalities?
Yes. You can enter decimals for the coefficient, constant, and right side. The precision field controls how many decimal places appear.
What does interval notation mean?
Interval notation shows the answer on a number line. Parentheses exclude an endpoint. Brackets include an endpoint.
What happens if the coefficient is zero?
The variable disappears. The calculator checks whether the remaining statement is true or false. The answer becomes all real numbers or no solution.
Can I use negative constants?
Yes. Enter the negative sign before the number. The calculator will correctly handle subtraction and sign changes.
Why is a test value useful?
A test value checks the original inequality after substitution. It helps confirm whether a chosen number fits the solution set.
Can I download my work?
Yes. Use the CSV button for spreadsheet data. Use the PDF button for a printable result summary.