Steps to solve an absolute value equation with one absolute value:
1. Isolate the absolute value on one side of the equation.
2. If the number on the other side of the equation is negative, then the equation has no solution. Else proceed to the next step.
3. Write two equations without absolute values. The first equation will set the quantity inside the | | signs equal to the number on the other side of the equal sign; the second equation will set the quantity inside the '| |' signs equal to the negative of the the number on the other side.
4. Solve the equation.
Steps to solve an absolute value equation with two absolute values:
1. Manipulate the equation to make one of the absolute values the subject of the equation.
2. Write two equations without absolute values. The first equation will set the quantity inside the '| |' signs on the left side equal to the quantity inside the '| |' signs on the right side. The second equation will set the quantity inside the '| |' signs on the left side equal to the negative of the quantity inside the '| |' signs on the right side.
3. Solve the two equations.