Steps to solve 3 (x -5) + 7 x = 65

To solve this, you need to isolate/get the variable "x" by itself in the equation:

3(x - 5) + 7x = 65      Distribute 3 into (x - 5)

(3)x + (3)(-5) + 7x = 65

3x - 15 + 7x = 65     Combine like terms(terms that have the same variable and power/exponent), or combine 3x and 7x

10x - 15 = 65    Add 15 on both sides

10x - 15 + 15 = 65 + 15

10x = 80    Divide 10 on both sides to get "x" by itself

x = 8

PROOF

3(x - 5) + 7x = 65     Substitute/plug in 8 into "x" since x = 8

3(8 - 5) + 7(8) = 65

3(3) + 56 = 65

9 + 56 = 65

65 = 65