Definition: Equation — Psychometric Glossary
An equation is a mathematical equality containing one or more unknowns to be determined. Solving equations is a key skill in the psychometric test.
- Definition and types of equations
- Step-by-step solving methods
- Equation exercises for the psychometric test
- Quick verification techniques
What is an equation?
An equation is a mathematical expression that states the equality between two expressions containing one or more unknowns (usually denoted x, y, z). Solving an equation means finding the value(s) of these unknowns that make the equality true.
The most common types of equations are: first-degree equations (2x + 3 = 7), second-degree equations (x² - 5x + 6 = 0), and systems of equations with multiple unknowns.
Equations in the psychometric test
In the psychometric test, equations appear as problems to be set up and solved. The difficulty often lies in translating a verbal statement into a mathematical expression.
Questions may involve simple equations, systems of two equations, or inequalities. Mastering how to set up equations is just as important as solving them.
Frequently asked questions
What types of equations appear in the test?
Mainly first-degree equations, systems of two equations with two unknowns, and some simple second-degree equations. Setting up equations from word problems is very common.
How to quickly solve an equation?
Isolate the unknown by performing the same operations on both sides of the equality. For systems, use substitution or elimination. Always verify your answer by plugging it back into the original equation.
How to translate a word problem into an equation?
Identify the unknown (what you're looking for), spot the relationships between quantities in the problem, then translate each relationship into a mathematical expression. Words like 'more than,' 'times,' and 'total' are key clues.
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