From the course: Learning Algebra: Solving Equations

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Solving multistep equations using the distributive property and combining like terms

Solving multistep equations using the distributive property and combining like terms

From the course: Learning Algebra: Solving Equations

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Solving multistep equations using the distributive property and combining like terms

- As we continue our study of equations with the Distributive Property, you're going to find that the equations start to look a little more complicated. In this example, we're going to solve for b, and we have 2b-3(3b + 2) + 4 = -18. We need to follow those three steps in order, so our very first job is to get rid of the parentheses, by using the Distributive Property. When we distribute, we need to remember that we can't just distribute the 3. We always have to take the sign in front. So, we're going to be distributing a -3 So, what I'm going to do first, is bring down the 2b, so that it doesn't get lost, and then I'm going to distribute -3 throughout the parentheses. So, -3 times 3b is -9b, which I'm going to write as -9b. And then -3 times 2 is -6, which I'm going to write as -6. Then, I'm going to bring down the + 4 = -18. So, I've just completed the first job, which is to get rid of the parentheses by using the Distributive Property. Now, I need to see if I have like terms, and I…

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