To solve a linear equation, you need to isolate the variable on one side of the equation. Here are the steps to solve a linear equation:

1. Simplify both sides of the equation by combining like terms, if necessary.

2. Use the properties of equality to get the variable term on one side of the equation and the constant term on the other side. You can do this by adding or subtracting the same value to both sides of the equation.

3. If there are any coefficients or fractions in front of the variable term, divide both sides of the equation by that coefficient or fraction to isolate the variable.

4. Check your solution by substituting the value you found for the variable back into the original equation. If both sides of the equation are equal, then your solution is correct.

Here’s an example to illustrate the steps:

Example: Solve the equation 3x + 5 = 17

1. Simplify both sides of the equation: 3x + 5 = 17

2. Get the variable term on one side and the constant term on the other side: 3x = 17 - 5

3. Simplify the right side of the equation: 3x = 12

4. Divide both sides of the equation by the coefficient of x, which is 3: (3x)/3 = 12/3

5. Simplify both sides of the equation: x = 4

6. Check the solution by substituting x = 4 back into the original equation: 3(4) + 5 = 17

7. Simplify both sides of the equation: 12 + 5 = 17

8. Both sides of the equation are equal, so the solution x = 4 is correct.

Remember to always check your solution to ensure its accuracy.