check the picture below.
so, we know the dimensions of the pool, is a 20x10, so its area is simply 200 ft², and we know the walkway is 216 ft², so the whole thing, including pool and walkway is really 200 + 216 ft².
now, as you see in the picture, the dimensions for the combined area is 20+2x and 10+2x, since the walkway is "x" long, therefore,
notice, it cannot be -18, since is a positive length unit.
