If the sum of a number and three is tripled, the result is five less than twice the number. Find the number

-14

Step-by-step explanation:

Write an equation and expressions by defining variables first.

"a number" is x.

Then "the sum of a number and three is tripled" is 3 (x+3).

And "five less than twice the number" is 2x - 5.

Set them equal and solve for x.

3 (x+3) = 2x - 5

3x+9 = 2x-5

x+9 = - 5

x = - 14