Question

What is the first step to solving the equation -2(3x + 8) - 2 = 10?

Answer 1

The first step would be to simplify. In this case, your coefficient is a -2. Divide each side by negative 2, leaving you with

(3x + 8) + 1 = -5.

Then, expand.

3x + 8 + 1 = -5

3x + 9 = -5

Subtract 9 from each side

3x = -14

Divide.

x = -14/3

Hope that helped!

Answer 2

distribute

Explanation:

one of the first steps you can take is to distribute the negative 2 into the numbers in the parentheses