Question

If the sum of a number and eight is tripled, the result is two less than twice the number. How do you find the number?

Answer 1

`x=-26`

With a word question you break it down into parts slowly building the equation (s) that model it.

Explanation:

Splitting the question down into its component parts.

If the sum of a number: `->........................" "x+?`
and 8: `->................................................." "x+8`
is trippled: `->................" "3xx(x+8) -> 3(x+8)`
The result is: `->....................................." "3(x+8)=?`
2 less than :`->......................................" "3(x+8)=?-2`
twice the number:`->............................." "3(x+8)=2x-2`
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Multiply out the brackets

`3x+24=2x-2`

`3x-2x=-2-24`

`x=-26`