Question

when solving the equation \\(7x - 5 + 3 = 31\\), the first step is to

• divide by 7
• subtract 5
• combine like terms

Explanation:

Identify the terms in the equation

Using the Solving Multi-Step Equations knowledge point

$$ 7x - 5 + 3 = 31 $$

Simplify the left side of the equation

Using the Combining Like Terms knowledge point

$$ -5 + 3 = -2 $$

$$ 7x - 2 = 31 $$

Determine the first step

Using the Solving Multi-Step Equations and Combining Like Terms knowledge points
The first step performed on the expression is simplifying the constant terms on the left side, which is combining like terms.

Answer:

• Divide by 7
• Subtract 5
• Combine like terms (Correct answer)