How this calculation works
The candidate must make the original logarithm argument positive. Exponentiation makes that argument equal to a positive power of the base.
THE FORMULA
logᵦ(ax+d) = c implies x = (bᶜ−d)/aA worked example
log₂(3x+1)=4 gives 3x+1=16 and x=5.
Good to know
The base must be positive and different from 1.
Reference: OpenStax Algebra and Trigonometry (opens in a new tab) ↗
Read the result
Solve for the variable inside a logarithm by converting to an exponential equation.
The primary result is labeled “Solution x”. Keep the input definitions in view when comparing this result with another method.
Try a related calculation
The base must be positive and different from 1.
For a related exercise, try the quadratic equation solver.
A few questions, answered
How can I check the default inputs by hand?
log₂(3x+1)=4 gives 3x+1=16 and x=5.
Which rule does this calculator apply?
logᵦ(ax+d) = c implies x = (bᶜ−d)/a