Free equation calculator
This is an online equation solver that can solve not only equations, but almost any algebra problem you enter—solve equations, simplify expressions, factor expressions, solve inequalities, solve matrices, solve systems of equations, graph equations, and much more.
How to solve problems with this calculator
First, you need to select the appropriate operation tab (i.e. Equation) and sub-tab (i.e. Solve). Once you are on the correct page, you can start entering your algebra problem.
You will notice that as soon as you begin typing, below the input line the expression will be shown in the 'book format'. This makes it easier to input your problem. Expressions are entered using common algebraic notation. Here is a brief summary of allowed characters and character combinations:
- variables: a..z, A..Z
- indexed variables, for example: a1
- digits: 0..9
- decimal point: .
- operators: +,-,*,/,^
- grouping symbols: (,)
- constants: i, e, pi
- functions: sin, cos, tan, ln, log, sqrt, etc.
- equal sign and inequality symbols: =, <, >, <=, >=
- comma (to separate expressions): ,
The syntax allows implied multiplication (i.e. ab is interpreted as a*b). The exception to this rule is function and constant entry (i.e. sin is a function and not the product s*i*n). Also, an integer following a variable will be interpreted as an index (i.e. 'a1' will have the meaning of a1 rather than a*1).
Also note that if you want the cursor to 'stay' in a denominator or exponent, you will need to use the parentheses. For example, to keep variable c in the denominator, you will need to enter a/(b+c) .
Once you have entered the problem, simply click on the Solution button (depending on the operation, this button may be called 'Simplify', 'Solve' or something else). This will display the problem solution.
Additional help on using the math solver can be obtained by clicking on question marks that can be found by the input fields.
See also
Free worksheets for linear equations - customize them as you like!
Free worksheets for linear inequalities
Free worksheets for simplifying expressions - for pre-algebra and algebra 1
Equation editor - a handy tool to create images of equations that you can copy and paste to your materials.
Real World Algebra by Edward Zaccaro
Algebra is often taught abstractly with little or no emphasis on what algebra is or how it can be used to solve real problems. Just as English can be translated into other languages, word problems can be "translated" into the math language of algebra and easily solved. Real World Algebra explains this process in an easy to understand format using cartoons and drawings. This makes self-learning easy for both the student and any teacher who never did quite understand algebra. Includes chapters on algebra and money, algebra and geometry, algebra and physics, algebra and levers and many more. Designed for children in grades 4-9 with higher math ability and interest but could be used by older students and adults as well. Contains 22 chapters with instruction and problems at three levels of difficulty.
