The first step for solving this is to distribute 5 through the parenthesis. 5b + 30 = 18 Now move the constant to the right side of the equation and change its sign. 5b = 18 - 30 Calculate the difference between the two numbers on the right side of the equation. 5b = -12 Lastly,, you need to divide both sides of the equation by 5. b = - You can convert this fraction into a decimal by dividing the top of the fraction by the bottom. When you do this you should get -2.4 which will make the correct answer to your question option B. Let me know if you have any further questions :)