In the arena of Systems of Equations, two gladiators reign supreme. In this corner, the cunning SUBSTITUTION. And in this corner, the brutal ELIMINATION.

Substitution's Strategy: Isolate and Infiltrate. Solve one equation for one variable, then substitute that expression into the other equation.

Elimination's Strategy: Stack and Annihilate. Line up the equations and add or subtract them to make one variable completely disappear.

Substitution is at its best when one variable is already isolated or has a coefficient of 1, making for a clean switch.

Elimination is at its best when the equations are already neatly lined up in standard form and no variable is easily isolated.

Substitution can get messy with fractions if you're not careful, requiring more complex calculations.

Elimination sometimes requires you to multiply one or both equations first to create a matching opponent for cancellation.

A beginner often finds one method and sticks with it, even when it's inefficient.

A master knows which gladiator is best suited for the specific fight and chooses their weapon strategically.

There is no 'better' method. There is only the more elegant and efficient choice for the battle at hand. Choose your champion wisely.