10-(2x-1)=3-3x

Question

Do I multiply 10*2xnd the solve as normal?

Answer 1

Hi Clifford.

When there is a negative sign in front of parenthese like that, it really stands for -1. Imagine there is a -1 in front. You have to distribute it within the parentheses.

10-(2x-1)=3-3x

10-1(2x-1)=3-3x

When you distribute the -1, you get this:

10-2x+1=3-3x

Note that the multiplication of -1 changed the signs of both terms in the parentheses.

After distributing the -1, you can continue with this as a normal addition and subtraction problem.

Answer 2

Hi, Clifford.

No, do not multiply the 10 times the terms in the grouping (parentheses).  The 10 is not immediately in front of it, the negative sign is.  You will be multiplying the terms in the grouping by -1 (the 1 is understood).  So your new equation will look like this:

10 - 2x + 1 = 3 - 3x

See?