3x+17=-7. Could some1 simplify that, please! I don't really understand it! Thanks!!!!

You want to get the 'x' alone on the left side. If you have any number added to, or subtracted from, the x-term get rid of it first.

3x + 17 = -7

Subtract 17 from both sides:                (-7 - 17 = -24)

3x = -24

Divide both sides by 3:

x = -8

It's pretty simple, just make sure you simplify correctly. Remember that you always want the variable by itself as you go about it. Start with the addition and subtraction to get the 17 away from the side with the X, so subtract 17 from both sides and then you have 3x=-24. Next divide away the 3 from both sides so x is completely alone and you are good to go.

Thank you!