Question

A number decreased by -3 is equal to -40. Write an equation.

Answer 1

let that number be x so :

x - 3 = -40

Answer 2

Let the number be x

so x-3=-40

Answer 3

you want to denote "a number" with an unknown
we will use the letter
x
x -3 is equal to -40
x-3=-40

Answer 4

x-3=-40