Kendra B.

asked • 09/14/15

how to simplify this 5x-3(x-4)

distributive property 

2 Answers By Expert Tutors

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Amy C. answered • 09/14/15

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The first thing I would do, to make it easier for yourself, is change the equation to:
5x + -3(x + -4)
or 5x plus -3(x plus -4)
Then you need to "distribute" -3 to both parts inside the parentheses (x+ -4).  The first part, 5x, won't change at all.
 
5x plus -3 times (the rest.)  Multiply -3 times each part inside the parentheses now.
5x + (-3)(x) +(-3)(-4)
 
5x + -3x + -12
5x-3x +-12
2x  + -12
2x-12
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