Or you can choose to use more meaningful variables if you prefer
Such as c for the number of cats and d for the number of dogs
How do I use my GDC to solve a system of linear equations?
You can use your GDC to solve the system on the calculator papers (paper 2 & paper 3)
Your GDC will have a function within the algebra menu to solve a system of linear equations
You will need to choose the number of equations
For two equations the variables will be x and y
For three equations the variables will be x, y and z
If required, write the equations in the given form
ax + by = c
ax + by + cz = d
Your GDC will display the values of x and y (or x, y, and z)
Exam Tip
Make sure that you are familiar with how to use your GDC to solve a system of linear equations because even if you are asked to use an algebraic method and show your working, you can use your GDC to check your final answer
If a systems of linear equations question is asked on a non-calculator paper, make sure you check your final answer by inputting the values into all original equations to ensure that they satisfy the equations
Worked Example
On a mobile phone game, a player can purchase one of three power-ups (fire, ice, electricity) using their points.
Adam buys 5 fire, 3 ice and 2 electricity power-ups costing a total of 1275 points.
Alice buys 2 fire, 1 ice and 7 electricity power-ups costing a total of 1795 points.
Alex buys 1 fire and 1 ice power-ups which in total costs 5 points less than a single electricity power up.