Hi there!
3(a - 4) + 1 = 9 - a
What we wanna do is use the distributive property
(3)(a) + (3)(-4) + 1 = 9 - a
3a - 12 + 1 = 9 - a
3a - 11 = 9 - a
Then add 11 to both sides
3a - 11 + 11 = 9 - a + 11
3a = -a + 20
Add a to both sides
3a + a = -a + 20 + a
4a = 20
Divide both sides by 4
4a/4 = 20/4
a = 5
I hope this helps!
Please let me know if you have any questions about the answer.
Thanks!
#Garebear
