1) Combine like terms on each side of the equation. For example, write 3 instead of \( 1+ \) 1.

When you combine like terms, you simplify the equation to make it easier to work with. For instance, if you have an expression like \( 1 + 3x + 2 - 4x \), you would add the constant terms \( 1 + 2 \) to get \( 3 \) and the variable terms \( 3x - 4x \) to get \( -1x \), transforming it into \( 3 - 1x \). Once you combine like terms on both sides of the equation, you can start solving for the variable. For instance, if your equation looks like \( 2x + 3 = 4 - 1x + 1 \), simplify each side to \( 2x + 3 = 5 - 1x \). This allows you to isolate the variable more efficiently, leading you one step closer to finding the solution! Keep up the good work!