Question

Solve the equation
45 = 3(x + 1)

Answer 1

x = 14

Explanation:

45 = 3(x + 1)

Distribute

45 = 3x + 3

-3 -3

----------------

42 = 3x

---- ----

3 3

14 = x

Answer 2

x = 14

Explanation:

45 = 3(x + 1)

Distribute the 3

3(x) = 3x

3(1) = 3

We now have 45 = 3x + 3

Subtract 3 from both sides

45 - 3 = 42

3 - 3 cancels out

We now have 42 = 3x

Divide both sides by 3

42/3 = 14

3x / 3 = x

We're left with x = 14