If three times a number increased by 4, the result is - 8

The original number is - 4.

Explanation:

Let the original number be n.

Next, three times the number is equal to 3n.

Then, increased by 4 means 4 is added.

Hence, three times a number increased by 4 equals - 8 is written in the equation form as shown below.

=> 3n + 4 = - 8

=> 3n = - 8 + (-4)

Since the number, 4, goes on the other side of the equal sign, the number positive 4 changes its sign and becomes negative 4, as shown above.

=> 3n = - 8 - 4

=> 3n = - 12

=> n = - 12/3

=> n = - 4

Checking the above solution.

Three times the number is equal to 3 * (-4) = - 12.

The above product when increased by 4 gives the equation as shown.

-12 + 4 = - 8.

The result is - 8.

This result is same as the result mentioned in the given question, - 8.

Hence, the answer that - 4 is the original number is correct.