Solving for x-citement: Hands-on algebra

At Brilliant, we believe learning algebra can be as much fun as a great mobile game. Our Solving Equations course reveals the key ideas of algebra through hands-on puzzles. Instead of endless explanations, we put action first—so you can start solving and discovering from the very first tap. This isn’t just learning; it’s learning by doing.

Puzzles you already know how to solve

We think everyone has an innate understanding of algebra—even if they don’t realize it yet. The scale puzzles we use for the first half of the course are a perfect example.

Without any formulas, you can probably figure out the weight of a triangle by intuition. These puzzles show that solving equations doesn’t have to feel abstract—it’s something you can already do.

Action first, theory later

Traditional math lessons often explain a concept in detail before letting you try it out. We turn that approach on its head. In our Solving Equations course, every lesson starts in the action. Think of it like a game—nobody wants to sit through a cutscene before you get to play. You just want to get straight into it, and that’s what we do. We get you right into puzzles that are challenging enough to be rewarding, but intuitive enough to solve without much reading.

Build the tools as you go

Once you’re comfortable with the scale puzzles, we help you build algebraic tools to tackle more complex challenges. Some puzzles are set up to be just a bit too tough to solve by intuition alone. That’s where algebra comes in—we show you how to use expressions and equations to solve these tougher problems. We give you the tools you need, right when you need them.

Interactive-first learning

Our interactives make it easy and fun to build expressions and solve equations. You can tap or drag tiles to match what's on the scale, creating a direct connection between the physical puzzle and its algebraic representation. From there, you’ll solve equations step by step with quick, interactive questions that keep you in the flow. It’s all about experimenting and discovering the joy of problem-solving.

Learn algebra by doing

The Brilliant approach is simple: the best way to learn algebra is to do algebra. By front-loading every lesson with action, we let you experience the core concepts before diving into the theory. It’s a natural way to learn—one that builds confidence as you go and shows you how capable you already are.

Start solving today

If algebra feels intimidating, our Solving Equations course will change that. We offer a hands-on, puzzle-driven way to understand algebra, starting with concepts you already know and building toward advanced problem-solving. Ready to start solving? Explore Brilliant’s Solving Equations course today and discover how intuitive algebra can be.