Math questions like this are answered simply by reading a little at a time, and writing it down as you go.
IF 4 IS SUBTRACTED ---
ok so I have SOMETHING -4
FROM TWICE A NUMBER -
so let's call the number x. Twice the number is 2x. And I already know 4 is subtracted from it --
2x - 4
THE RESULT IS -
this is the equal sign!
2x - 4 =
10 LESS THAN -
this is a little tricky - it is 10 less than SOMETHING - and I haven't read what the something is yet....
2x - 4 = SOMETHING - 10
THE NUMBER
ok, so this is the SOMETHING that 10 is subtracted from. I called the number x, so 10 less than x is translated as x-10 because I count down FROM x.
2x - 4 = x - 10
You solve this equation by combining like terms, and remembering, what I do to one side of the equation, I need to do to the other side.
Subtract x from both sides.
Add 4 to both sides.
If you are having trouble adding and subtracting negative numbers, think gaining and losing money. Like this - if I lost 10 dollars,and then gained 4 dollars, how much have I now gained or lost?
