How do I solve this problem using the substitution method

x-3y=4

4x-2y=26

x=7

y=1

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to use substitution you need to get one of the equations to have a variable by itself. I'm going to use the first one and get x by itself.

x-3y = 4 So firstly add the 3y to both sides since you want x alone.

+3y + 3y

x=3y+4

Now that you have x alone you can plug this into the second equation for x.

4 (3y+4) - 2y=26

Next distribute the 4 to both terms inside the parenthesis.

4 (3y) + 4 (4) - 2y=26 Simplify.

12y+16-2y=26 Now add or subtract your like terms together (12y-2y).

10y+16=26 Next subtract 16 from both sides.

-16 - 16

10y=10 Finally, to get y alone divide by 10 on both side.

y=1

To find x you plug y back into one of the equations you started with. I'm using x-3y=4 Again.

x-3 (1) = 4 Distribute the - 3 to the one.

x-3=4 Now add 3 to both sides.

+3 + 3

x=7