Hi Nigel,

Without parentheses I am not sure what your equations are but I expect they are

\begin{eqnarray*}
2x + \frac12 y & = & 1\\
6x - \frac32 y & = & 21
\end{eqnarray*}

If so then I would multiply each side of both equations by 2. This will give you two equations with integer coefficients.

Can you complete the problem now? Make sure you check your answer.

If you still need assistance write back to tell us what you did and we will try to help.

Penny