1. Let's start by understanding what pre-algebra means: it's the math before algebra, focusing on basic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. 2. Suppose you have a simple problem like solving for $x$ in $2x + 3 = 7$. 3. The goal is to find the value of $x$ that makes the equation true. 4. First, subtract 3 from both sides to isolate the term with $x$: $$2x + 3 - 3 = 7 - 3$$ which simplifies to $$2x = 4$$ 5. Next, divide both sides by 2 to solve for $x$: $$\frac{\cancel{2}x}{\cancel{2}} = \frac{4}{2}$$ which simplifies to $$x = 2$$ 6. So, the answer is $x = 2$. 7. Remember, the key steps are to undo addition or subtraction first, then undo multiplication or division to solve for the variable. 8. This method works for many simple equations in pre-algebra.