The role of problem representation and feature knowledge in algebraic equation-solving

•Both feature encoding and feature knowledge are correlated with equation-solving success.•Only feature knowledge independently predicted success, and feature encoding did not mediate the relationship.•Findings were similar for general conceptual knowledge and that of specific problem features (e.g., equals sign, negative signs, variables).•Helping students to develop feature knowledge within a meaningful conceptual context may improve both encoding and problem-solving performance.