1. Combine like terms
7x+1= x+4
2. Get all of your variable to one side (subtract one x from both sides)
6x+1 = 4
3. Subtract one from both sides
6x = 3
4. Divide both sides by 6 to isolate the variable
x = 3/6
5. Simplify your fraction, and you get the answer...
x=1/2
If you need any further explanation, just let me know :)