You need to solve this equation for x: ax−7=26

Question

Which would be the best first step you could make to solve the equation?

(1 point)
Responses

divide ax by a and 26 by a
divide ax by a and 26 by a

subtract 7 from the left side of the equation
subtract 7 from the left side of the equation

Combine ax - 7 to get -7x
Combine ax - 7 to get -7x

add 7 to both sides of the equation

Answer 1

The best first step to solve the equation \( ax - 7 = 26 \) would be to add 7 to both sides of the equation.

This step simplifies the equation, allowing you to isolate the term containing \( x \). After adding 7 to both sides, the equation becomes \( ax = 33 \), which can then be solved for \( x \).