If the first step in the solution of the equation 2x - 8 = 5x + 3 is "subtract 2x," then what should the next step be?

Question

jamierox4ev3r · Answer

after you subtract 2x from both sides subtract 3 from both sides

jamierox4ev3r · Answer

then you are left with -11=3x

anonymous · Answer

would i subtract 2x from 5x?

anonymous · Answer

There isn't really one right answer to this, as you can approach it from several different ways. I would subtract 3 from both sides, I think thats the simplest way, as you'll be one step away from isolating x.

jamierox4ev3r · Answer

yes @Zacharymartin

jamierox4ev3r · Answer

then, your final answer is $$-11\over 3$$

jamierox4ev3r · Answer

does that make sense @Zacharymartin ?

anonymous · Answer

so when doing these kinda problems with a varible on both sides would i subtract from the other variable after?

anonymous · Answer

2x - 8 = 5x + 3 
-2x        -2x
----     -----

-8 = 3x + 3 
-3           -3
---      ------

-11 = 3x 
----   ----
3          3

$$x = -\frac{ 11 }{ 3 }$$

anonymous · Answer

2x - 8 = 5x + 3 (subtract 2x)
-8 = 5x - 2x + 3 (subtract 3)
-8 - 3 =5x - 2x
-11 = 3x
-11/3 = x

anonymous · Answer

so i need the 2 varibles on one side?