Question

solve for w.
5 ( w-3) - 7w = 3

Answer 1

5w - 15 - 7w = 3
-2w - 15 =3
-2 w = 18
w = -9

Answer 2

First, you need to distribute the 5 by multiplying the 5 by everything in the paraenthesis:

5 ( w-3) - 7w = 3
5w-15-7w=3

Now, you need to combine like terms, which will be the 5w and the -7w (Remember: always take the sign that's in the front).

-2w-15=3
Now, add 15 to both sides to keep getting that w alone:

-2w=18
Now, divide by -2.

-2w=18
/-2 /-2

w=-9

Hope this helps. :o)