Question

Solve for x. -1/2 (x+5)=2x -3/2

Answer 1

Start from

$-\dfrac{1}{2}(x+5)=2x -\dfrac{3}{2}$

It may be useful to multiply the whole expression by 2, in order to get rid of denominators:

$-(x+5)=4x -3$

Distribute the negative sign in the left hand side:

$-x-5=4x -3$

Move all terms involving x to the left, and all constants to the right:

$-x-4x=-3+5$

Sum like terms:

$-5x=2$

DIvide both sides -5:

$x = -\dfrac{2}{5}$