How do you solve #-2x - 5= - 17+ 4x#?

1 Answer
Jul 31, 2017

#x=2#

Explanation:

To solve for #x# ,the first step is to make #x# the subject of the equation by isolating it, i.e. have all #x# variables on one side and numbers on the other side.
#-2x-4x#=#5-17# (Doesn't matter which side numbers/#x# are on, whichever suits you best)
#-6x#=#-12#
So to isolate #x#, divide both sides by #-6#
Thus, #x=2#

Always remember to check your answers by substituting back into the original equation!