Question

What's the first step when solving the equation: -2(x + 5) - 4 = 5x?

Subtract 5x from both sides

Combine like terms on the left side

Distribute 2


Distribute -2

Answer 1

i suggest using -2 to multiply the figures in the bracket as a first step

Explanation:

then you'll have something like this

-2x - 10 - 4 = 5x

-2x - 14 = 5x

-14 = 5x + 2x

-14 = 7x

x = -14/7

x = -2. hope this helps