Question

What is the value of b if 9+b=-8

Answer 1

Subtract 9 from both sides of the '=' sign

9 - 9 + b = -8 -9

b = -17    That's  the answer.

Answer 2

To solve for b, we must move all constants to the right side of he equation. We will do this by subtracting 9 from both sides.
9-9+b=-8-9
B=-17

-17 is your final answer.