5-6 (a+2) = 7+a

What is a

The first step here would be to distribute the parenthesis to the - 6.

5 - 6a - 12 = 7 + a

Next, combine all like terms. This means that the constants will combine, thus making the next step easier.

- 6a - 7 = 7 + a

Now, subtract the negative seven from the other side of the parenthesis. When I say add the negative, I mean that the sign (-) will flip, turning into a positive.

- 6a = 14 + a

Now do the same with the a, except this time the a will be subtracted from the other side due to it's positive sign being flipped into a negative.

- 7a = 14

Now you divide both sides by - 7. Almost done!

- 7a / - 7 = 14 / - 7

Finally the equation simplifies to:

a = - 2

Remmeber you can do anything to an equaiton as long as you do it to btoh sides

5-6 (a+2) = 7+a

distribute

5-6a-12=7+a

add like terms

-6a-7=7+a

add 6a both sides

-7=7+7a

minus 7 both sides

-14=7a

divide by 7

-2=a

a=-2