Combine Like Terms: Combine like terms on the left side of the equation.We have 6p and −17p, which are like terms because they both contain the variable p.To combine them, we add their coefficients: 6−17=−11.So, 6p−17p simplifies to −11p.
Write Simplified Equation: Write the simplified equation.After combining like terms, our equation is now −11p=11.
Solve for p: Solve for p by dividing both sides of the equation by −11.To isolate p, we divide both sides of the equation by −11.−11p/−11=11/−11This simplifies to p=−1.
Check Solution: Check the solution.We substitute p=−1 back into the original equation to verify our solution.6(−1)−17(−1)=11−6+17=1111=11The left side of the equation equals the right side, confirming that p=−1 is the correct solution.
More problems from Solve equations involving like terms