When solving a system of equations, how do you determine which method to use?

Question

​When solving a system of equations how do you determine the best methos to use? When do you use elimination? When do you use graphing? When do you use distributive? when do you use substitution?

Answer 1

Unless you're told what method to use, you can use any of those methods. They all have to give the same solution. I use the one that I think will be quickest. A clue can sometimes be seen in the coefficients, suggesting perhaps elimination as the best method. Non-linear systems suggest substitution. Graphing can show inconsistency or multiple solutions.