Simplifying the Expression: (8x - 3) - 2(3x + 1)
This article will walk you through the process of simplifying the algebraic expression (8x - 3) - 2(3x + 1).
Step 1: Distribute
First, we need to distribute the -2 to the terms inside the parentheses:
-2(3x + 1) = -6x - 2
This gives us the new expression: (8x - 3) - 6x - 2
Step 2: Combine Like Terms
Now, we can combine the terms with 'x' and the constant terms separately:
- x terms: 8x - 6x = 2x
- Constant terms: -3 - 2 = -5
Step 3: Write the Simplified Expression
Finally, we combine the simplified terms:
(8x - 3) - 2(3x + 1) = 2x - 5
Therefore, the simplified form of the expression (8x - 3) - 2(3x + 1) is 2x - 5.