We are given the equation:
x + 3 = 8
Our goal is to find the value of
x that makes this equation true.
---
Step 1: Understand what we’re doing
We want to get
x all by itself on one side of the equation. Right now, it has a “+3” attached to it. To remove that, we do the opposite — we subtract 3.
But here’s the key rule:
👉 Whatever we do to one side of the equation, we MUST do to the other side too. That keeps the equation balanced.
---
Step 2: Subtract 3 from both sides
Start with:
x + 3 = 8
Subtract 3 from the left side:
x + 3 - 3 = x
Subtract 3 from the right side:
8 - 3 = 5
So now we have:
x = 5
---
Step 3: Check our answer
Plug
x = 5 back into the original equation to see if it works:
Original:
x + 3 = 8
Substitute:
5 + 3 = 8
Calculate:
8 = 8 →
✔ True!
That means our answer is correct.
---
Final Answer:
x = 5
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of open sentence math worksheet.