Since you need an isolated variable to use the substitution method, we need to re-arrange one of the equations. This will probably be easiest to do with the first one. Add 5y to both sides of the first equation. x=10+5y Now, in the second equation, put in 10+5y in any spot that has an x. 2(10+5y)-10y=20 Distribute the 2 to both numbers in the parenthesis. 20+10y-10y=20 Combine like terms. 20=20 This means that the two equations are actually the same. You can see this if you multiply the whole first equation by 2 2(x-5y=10) 2x-10y=20, which is the same as the second equation. Therefore, the two equations are actually the same one.
