what number should be added to both sides of the equation x-7/8 = -5 to solve for the value of x

To solve the equation \( \frac{x - 7}{8} = -5 \) for \( x \), you need to isolate \( x \).

First, you can eliminate the fraction by multiplying both sides of the equation by 8:

\[ x - 7 = -5 \times 8 \]

Calculating the right side:

\[ x - 7 = -40 \]

Next, to isolate \( x \), you need to add 7 to both sides:

\[ x = -40 + 7 \]

Performing the calculation:

\[ x = -33 \]

In summary, to solve for \( x \) you add 7 to both sides of the original equation. Thus, the number that should be added to both sides to solve for \( x \) is 7.