I'll solve it part of the way step by step. You'll have to finish it by yourself:b has already eliminated from the second equation, so the best way to begin is to eliminate b from two other equations. Multiply the 1st equation by 2 and it will have a term -8b which is opposite the +8b in the 3rd equation, and they will cancel when added. 4a-8b+12c-4d=-12 a+8b+ 2c+ d= 6 ---------------- 5a +14c-3d= -6 Also multiply the 1st equation by 3 and it will have a term -12b. Then multiply the 4th equation through by 2 and it will have a term 12b which is opposite the -12b, and they will cancel when added. 6a-12b+18c-6d=-18, 6a+12b+ 2c+8d= 4 ----------------- 12a +20c+2d=-14 Taking these two new equations with the original equations, we now have a system of three equations and three unknowns. Now eliminate one of those unknowns and you'll have a system with only two equations in two unknowns, which you can solve. You finish: I'll tell you the values for b = 1/2 and d = 3. You find a and c by yourself. Edwin