So,
1/4(3c + 5) + -1/2(2c + 3) = 1/2
First, we distribute to get rid of the parentheses. (PEMDAS)
3/4c + 1 1/4 - c - 1 1/2 = 1/2
Now, we collect like terms.
-1/4c - 1/4 = 1/2
Add 1/4 to both sides.
-1/4c = 3/4
Now, multiply by the reciprocal (-4/1).
c = -3
Check your answer.
1/4(3[-3] + 5) + -1/2(2[-3] + 3) = 1/2
1/4(-9 + 5) + -1/2(-6 + 3) = 1/2
-2 1/4 + 1 1/4 + 3 - 1 1/2 = 1/2
-1 + 1 1/12 = 1/2
1/2 = 1/2