Solve: 2x + 3 = 11.

**The reasoning** This is a **linear equation** — our job is to isolate x on one side. Start with: 2x + 3 = 11 **Step 1:** Remove the 3 by subtracting it from both sides: 2x + 3 − 3 = 11 − 3 2x = 8 **Step 2:** Divide both sides by 2 to find x: x = 8 ÷ 2 = **4** Check: Does 2(4) + 3 = 11? Yes! 8 + 3 = 11 ✓ **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **Option A (3):** You might subtract 3 from 11 first and forget to divide by 2, getting 8, then misread. - **Option C (5):** Common if you subtract 3 from 11 (getting 8) but don't divide — or if you divide 11 by 2 instead of working step-by-step. - **Option D (6):** Happens if you subtract 3 from 11, then subtract 2 instead of dividing. **Quick takeaway** Whatever you do to one side of the equation, do to the other — subtract first to remove constants, then divide to isolate x.