Question

what is the first step to solving the equation: |x + 1| = 4
set up 2 equations
x + 1 = 4
x + 1 = -4
subtract 1 on both sides
set up 2 equations:
x + 1 = 4
x - 1 = 4
add 1 to both sides

Explanation:

Step1: Recall absolute value rule

For \(|A| = B\) (\(B\geq0\)), \(A = B\) or \(A=-B\).

Step2: Apply to given equation

Given \(|x + 1|=4\), so \(x + 1 = 4\) or \(x + 1=-4\). Check options:

• First option: Sets up \(x + 1 = 4\) and \(x + 1=-4\) (correct by absolute value definition).
• Second option: Subtracting 1 is not first step (first step is splitting absolute value).
• Third option: Second equation \(x - 1 = 4\) is wrong (should be \(x + 1=-4\)).
• Fourth option: Adding 1 is incorrect first step.

Answer:

Set up 2 equations \(x + 1 = 4\) \(x + 1=-4\) (the first blue box option)