How do I solve: 3 (x+4) = 3

In order to solve this, start by distributing the 3.

Essentially, we multiplying each value inside the parenthesis by 3, to get:

3x + 12 = 3

Next, subtract 12 on both sides:

3x + 12 - 12 = 3 - 12

12 - 12 = 0

3 - 12 = - 9

So:

3x = - 9

The last step here is to divide both sides by 3:

3x : 3 = - 9 : 3

3 • X : 3 = X

-9 : 3 = - 3

So, long story short, X = - 3

3x + 12 = 3

(multiply 3 by the variables in the parentheses)

3x + 12 = 3

add 12 to each side

3x = 15

divide each side by 3

X=5