16Hit1600
AlgebraHardEliminating a variable with matching coefficients

Algebra practice question

If 2x + 5y = 1 and 3x − 5y = 14, what is the value of x + y?

Answer: 2

Add the equations: 5x = 15, so x = 3. Then 6 + 5y = 1 gives y = −1. x + y = 3 + (−1) = 2.

Common wrong answers

If you answered 3
3 is x alone.
If you answered 4
4 is x − y, the difference.
If you answered -1
−1 is y alone.

More Algebra questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.