📚 Add & Subtract Inequalities
Solve It Like an Equation
Get the variable alone by doing the opposite operation on both sides. When you add or subtract, the inequality symbol never flips.
1
Find what is with the variable.x − 3 < 5 → the −3 is with x
2
Undo it on both sides.x − 3 + 3 < 5 + 3
If x Ends Up on the Right — Rewrite!
Flip the whole inequality around so x comes first. The symbol turns to point the same way at the same numbers.
3 ≤ x − 1 → 4 ≤ x → x ≥ 4
Graphing on a Number Line
1
Circle at the boundary number.Open circle ○ for < or > · Closed circle ● for ≤ or ≥
2
Shade toward the numbers that work.x ≥ 4 → closed circle at 4, shade right →
3
Test a number to check!Is 5 ≥ 4? Yes — 5 is in the shaded part. ✔