Hi Kieran,

Let me try a similar problem.

Solve
3(4 + x) - 8 = 4 - (2x - 5)

First you should simplify any expressions inside parentheses. These can't be simplified any further.

Next perform any multiplications. On the left side I have 3(4 + x) so multiplying through by 3 I get

12 + 3x - 8 = 4 - (2x - 5)

On the right I see - (2x - 5) as (-1)(2x - 5) and thus multiplying through by -1 I get

12 + 3x - 8 = 4 - (2x - 5) = 4 + (-1)(2x - 5) = 4 - 2x + 5

which is

12 + 3x - 8 = 4 - 2x + 5 or
4 + 3x = 9 - 2x

To get all the terms with an x on the left side I add 2x to both sides

4 + 3x + 2x = 9 - 2x + 2x or
4 + 5x = 9

Finally subtract 4 from each side

4 + 5x - 4 = 9 - 4 or
5x = 5

Thus x = 1.

Now try your problem,
Penny