Question

If three times a number minus 2 equals 13, what is the number?

Answer 1

Change the messy words into numerals
3     times          a number         minus            2           equals         13
3          ×                n                     -                 2               =               13

3n - 2 = 13
take 2 to the other side
3n - 2 + (2)  = 13 + (2)
3n = 15

Divide by 3 on either sides to isolate n
$\frac{3n}{3}$ = $\frac{15}{3}$
3 and 3 cancels out

n = 5

check:
3 times 5 minus 2 equals 13
3     ×    5       -      2     =     13
15    -      2        =          13
13            =               13

The number is 5