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Da VIP Academy / GED / Math / Algebra & Functions

Inequalities

Solve and interpret linear inequalities, including flipping the sign.

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How it works

Solve like an equation, with one rule

4x + 5 ≤ 21 → 4x ≤ 16 → x ≤ 4. But if you multiply or divide by a negative, flip the symbol: −3x > 12 → x < −4.

Read the meaning

x ≤ 4 means 4 and everything below it works. On a number line, a closed dot includes the endpoint; an open dot excludes it.

Worked examples

  1. Solve −3x > 12.

    1. Divide by −3.
    2. Flip the symbol.
    3. x < −4.

Words to know

Inequality
A statement that one value is greater or less than another.

Test-day tips

  • • Only a negative multiply or divide flips the sign — adding a negative does not.
Try Inequalities practice