Question

How do I solve this?

The perimeter of a rectangular writing pad is 28 inches. The length is 1 inch
less than twice the width. Find the width.

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Translate your English into Math
<The length is 1 inch
less than twice the width>

or L = 2W - 1

<Perimeter is 28 inches>

2L + 2W = 28
2(2W-1) + 2L = 28

I am sure you can solve this

I am just beginning to learn this stuff.
The answer is 7 right?

no

starting from 2(2W-1) + 2L = 28
4w - 2 + 2L = 28
6W = 28+2
6W=30
W = 5 the L = 2W-1
= 10-1
= 9

check 2(9) + 2(5) = 28

Are you sure? I have 4 choices on my
assignment to mark and 9 isn't on there.

The choices are:

A. 8 inches
B. 7 inches
C. 6 inches
D. 5 inches

Yes I am sure.

My answers were W=5 L=9

notice i had verified my answer.

The original equation should be:
2(2w-1)+ 2w = 28 (It used L in the first equation, but L was replaced by 2w-1)

Distribute first:
4w-2 + 2w = 28

Combine like terms:
6w - 2 = 28

Solve:
6w = 30
w = 5

The correct answer is D. Double check it in the original equation.