When you solve an equation, how do you know when to add and when to subtract?

Question

Hey I'm just having a hard time wording out the answer can you help?

Answer 1

In solving an equation the idea is to "undo" all operations.

so if it is an addition problem then you subtract to solve and vice versa

example. x + 3 = 5   subtract 3 from both sides to "undo" addition

x - 4 = 10   add 4 to both sides to "undo" subtraction