Solve for the missing variable. Write your answer as a decimal. 2(x - 6) + 4 = 18

Understand the Problem
The question is asking us to solve the equation 2(x - 6) + 4 = 18 for the variable x. The approach involves isolating x through algebraic manipulation.
Answer
$13$
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is $13$.
Steps to Solve
- Distribute the 2 across the parentheses
Start by distributing the 2 to both terms inside the parentheses:
$$ 2(x - 6) + 4 = 18 $$
becomes
$$ 2x - 12 + 4 = 18 $$
- Combine like terms
Next, combine the constant terms:
$$ 2x - 12 + 4 = 18 $$
This simplifies to:
$$ 2x - 8 = 18 $$
- Isolate the variable
To isolate $2x$, add 8 to both sides:
$$ 2x - 8 + 8 = 18 + 8 $$
which simplifies to:
$$ 2x = 26 $$
- Solve for x
Now, divide both sides by 2 to find $x$:
$$ x = \frac{26}{2} $$
which simplifies to:
$$ x = 13 $$
The final answer is $13$.
More Information
The solution indicates that the value of the variable $x$ is $13$. This means that when you substitute $13$ back into the original equation, it will hold true.
Tips
- Not distributing correctly: Make sure to distribute the multiplier to all terms inside the parentheses.
- Mistakes in combining like terms: Check to ensure you accurately combine constants and variables.
- Forgetting to isolate the variable: Remember always to get the variable by itself on one side of the equation.
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