Steps in solving equilibrium problems:

1. List major species and concentrations based on information given.

2. Brainstorm for reactions involving major species. Categorize reactions as (K<1), (K>1) , or (K so large it may not even be known; reaction goes to completion).

3. Assume all and reactions go to completion. Calculate new concentrations based on stoichiometry, and revise the major species list accordingly. Return to step 2, changing all formerly reactions to reactions (the reverse reaction).

4. When you are left with only reactions in your list, brainstorm for other or reactions involving minor products. Any reaction followed by a reaction should be rewritten as a combination reaction (cf. solubility equilibrium involving complexation).

5. List the K's and pick the dominant equilibrium, which usually is the one with the largest K. Solve for x, the extent of this equilibrium reaction.

6. Progress down the list of reactions from highest to lowest K, using concentrations from previous reactions in further calculations. Sometimes this approximation is not valid, and you must solve simultaneous equations.