When variables and numbers appear on both sides, you must simplify:
- Both signs
- Both steps
- Both sums
- Both sides
Show answer and solution
Correct answer: D. Both sides
1. Each side may hold terms to combine.
2. Neither can be left untidy.
3. So you simplify both sides before isolating.
_Source: OpenStax Elementary Algebra 2e, Chapter 2, Solving Linear Equations and Inequalities._