i don't understand

Question

the sum of 3 consecutive numbers is 180 what is the smallest of the 3 numbers.

Answer 1

n + n + 1 + n + 2 = 180

I bet you can get it from here.

Answer 2

Create a variable for the smallest number: n

Create the consecutive numbers: n+1, n+2

Sum the three numbers to = 180: n + (n + 1) + (n + 2) = 180

Add like terms: 3n + 3 = 180

Subtract 3 from both sides: 3n = 177

Divide by 3 on both sides: n = 59

Three consecutive numbers are: 59, 60, 61

Smallest number is 59