Hey there!
• ORIGINAL EQUATION
3x - 5 + x = 31
• Conversion
3x - 5 + 1x = 31
• COMBINE the LIKE TERMS
4x - 5 = 31
• ADD 5 to BOTH SIDES
4x - 5 + 5 = 31 + 5
‣ CANCEL out: -5 + 5 because it give you 1
‣ KEEP: 31 + 5 because it help solve for the x-value
• NEW EQUATION
4x = 31 + 5
• SIMPLIFY IT!
4x = 36
• DIVIDE 4 to BOTH SIDES
4x/4 = 36/4
‣ CANCEL out: 4/4 because it give you 1
‣ KEEP: 36/4 because it help solve for the x-value
• NEW EQUATION
x = 36/4
• SIMPLIFY IT!
x = 9
Therefore, your answer is: x = 9
Good luck on your assignment & enjoy your day!
~Amphitrite1040:)