Solve Equations with Variables and Constants on Both Sides: example 8.30

Solve: $3 (x + 2) = 18 .$

Work it out on paper first. Then open the solution one step at a time, and stop as soon as you can finish on your own.

Your turn

The book's Try It right after this example: same idea, new numbers. Only the answer is given.

Solve: $5 (x + 3) = 35 .$

How did it go?


Simplify each side of the equation as much as possible. Use the Distributive Property.
Collect all variable terms on one side of the equation—all $x$ s are already on the left side.
Collect constant terms on the other side of the equation. Subtract 6 from each side
Simplify.
Make the coefficient of the variable term equal to 1. Divide each side by 3.
Simplify.
Check: Let $x = 4$ .


Simplify each side of the equation as much as possible. Use the Distributive Property.
Collect all variable terms on one side of the equation—all $x$ s are already on the left side.
Collect constant terms on the other side of the equation. Subtract 6 from each side
Simplify.
Make the coefficient of the variable term equal to 1. Divide each side by 3.
Simplify.
Check: Let $x = 4$ .