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In the world of algebra, solving equations often involves making the variable stand on its own. This process is called "isolating the variable". When given an equation like \( m - 5.36 = 1.39 \), the goal is to get \( m \) by itself on one side of the equation.
To isolate \( m \), you perform the opposite operation to whatever is being done to \( m \). For instance, if \( 5.36 \) is subtracted from \( m \), you will add \( 5.36 \) to both sides of the equation. This reverses the subtraction, effectively canceling it out and leaving \( m \) on its own.
Think of this step like maintaining balance on a seesaw – whatever you do to one side, you must do to the other to keep everything in equilibrium. Once \( m \) is isolated, you can clearly see that \( m = 6.75 \).

Once you've isolated the variable and found its value, the next vital step is checking your solution. This ensures your answer is not only calculated but also correct and verified.
To check if \( m = 6.75 \) is the right solution, substitute \( 6.75 \) back into the original equation \( m - 5.36 = 1.39 \). Performing the operation, you should calculate \( 6.75 - 5.36 \) which needs to equal \( 1.39 \).
If the left side of the equation equals the right side after substitution, as it does here, then your solution is indeed correct. However, if it doesn’t match, it's time to review your steps because an error may have occurred. Checking helps ensure accuracy and bolsters your confidence in the result.

Addition is one of the simplest yet most commonly used operations in algebra. It’s crucial when solving equations that involve subtraction, as it helps in reversing the operation.
In the equation \( m - 5.36 = 1.39 \), adding \( 5.36 \) to both sides is necessary to isolate \( m \). This addition counteracts the subtraction, effectively "neutralizing" it, and redistributes \( 5.36 \) to the other side of the equation.
The result of performing this addition is \( m = 6.75 \). Think of addition as your tool to shift numbers around, maintaining balance while getting closer to finding the value of the variable. Practice this operation, and it will soon become second nature when solving equations.