To solve the equation \( 3(x + 8) = 9 \), follow these steps:
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Distribute the 3: \[ 3x + 24 = 9 \]
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Subtract 24 from both sides: \[ 3x = 9 - 24 \] \[ 3x = -15 \]
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Divide both sides by 3: \[ x = \frac{-15}{3} \] \[ x = -5 \]
Thus, the value of \( x \) that makes the equation true is \( \boxed{-5} \).