The answer is 1.25 because simplifying : 0.5 + -4 =1.25 combine like terms : 0.5 + -4 = -3.5 -3.5 = 1.25 solving : -3.5 = 1.25 couldn't find a variable to solve for it. this equation is invalid, the left and right sides are not equal, therefore there is no solution.