Solve for X in the Expression: 3-2+10-x

Q: Why isn't there an equals sign in this problem?

This is an algebraic expression, not an equation! You're asked to simplify it, not solve for x. The goal is to combine like terms and write it in simplest form.

Q: Should I do 3 - 2 first or 2 + 10 first?

Always work left to right for operations of the same level! Do $ 3 - 2 = 1 $ first, then $ 1 + 10 = 11 $.

Q: Can I combine the numbers with the x term?

No! Numbers (constants) and variable terms like x are not like terms. You can only combine terms that have exactly the same variable parts.

Q: What if the problem asked me to solve for x?

You'd need an equation (with an equals sign) to solve for x! For example: $ 3 - 2 + 10 - x = 5 $ could be solved, but this expression cannot.

Q: Is 11 - x the same as -x + 11?

Yes! Both forms are correct due to the commutative property. However, $ 11 - x $ is the more standard way to write it.

Simplifying Expressions with Variables

$3-2+10-x=$

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations

00:05 Let's solve this problem together.

00:08 We'll use the order of operations, moving from left to right.

00:12 Each time, we'll handle the first operation we come across.

00:18 And that's how we find the solution. Great job!

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution

Understand the problem

$3-2+10-x=$

Step-by-step solution

We solve the exercise from left to right:

$3-2=1$

$1+10=11$

Now we obtain:

$11-x$

Final Answer

$11-x$

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic

Order of Operations: Work from left to right for addition and subtraction
Technique: Calculate constants first: 3 - 2 + 10 = 11
Check: Verify the simplified form contains all original terms ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors

Trying to solve for x when no equation is given
Don't set the expression equal to zero or try to find x = 5! This creates a nonexistent equation and wastes time. Always simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms and following order of operations.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

$74+32+6+4+4=\text{?}$

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why isn't there an equals sign in this problem?

This is an algebraic expression, not an equation! You're asked to simplify it, not solve for x. The goal is to combine like terms and write it in simplest form.

Should I do 3 - 2 first or 2 + 10 first?

Always work left to right for operations of the same level! Do $3 - 2 = 1$ first, then $1 + 10 = 11$ .

Can I combine the numbers with the x term?

No! Numbers (constants) and variable terms like x are not like terms. You can only combine terms that have exactly the same variable parts.

What if the problem asked me to solve for x?

You'd need an equation (with an equals sign) to solve for x! For example: $3 - 2 + 10 - x = 5$ could be solved, but this expression cannot.

Is 11 - x the same as -x + 11?

Yes! Both forms are correct due to the commutative property. However, $11 - x$ is the more standard way to write it.

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