This study attempts to describe the inherent cognitive load of students in a three-variable system of linear equations who have good, medium, and low mathematical problem-solving ability. To reduce intrinsic cognitive load and focus on each student's talents, teachers must be aware of the intrinsic cognitive load that their pupils face. 30 students from class X MIPA 2 SMA Negeri 1 X Koto di Atas are the subjects of this sort of research, which is a qualitative descriptive study. ways for gathering data in the form of tests and interviews. The test consists of two material description questions on a set of linear equations with three variables. Data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion are the three data analysis strategies used in this study. The findings indicated that students with mathematical problem-solving skills in (1) high students did not define SPLDV precisely and did not repeat the check process, which increased their intrinsic cognitive burden. (2) Moderate students make mistakes in the definition of SPLDV, in naming the elements of linear equations, in interpreting elimination and substitution, in performing algebraic operations, in understanding the distinction between SPLTV and PLTV, in being hesitant to perform elimination, in planning the steps, and in the calculation step. (3) Low students interpret SPLDV incorrectly, are unable to demonstrate SPLDV, mention the linear equation components incorrectly, interpret elimination and substitution incorrectly, incorrectly perform algebraic operations, are unable to perform elimination, have not mastered the concept of SPLTV, are incorrect in their understanding of the problem, are incorrect in the planning step, are incorrect in the calculation step, and are incorrect in the testing step.