How to Solve the Equation x + (x + 2) = 156 Step-by-Step | Find x = 77

Solving equations is a fundamental skill in algebra, but mastering step-by-step reasoning ensures you never miss a detail. One common equation many students encounter is:

x + (x + 2) = 156

Understanding the Context

Whether you’re a student learning math, a parent helping with homework, or someone brushing up on algebra, understanding how to solve this equation correctly is essential — and this breakdown simplifies it clearly and thoroughly.


Step 1: Simplify the Left Side

Start by expanding and combining like terms on the left-hand side:

Key Insights

\[
x + (x + 2) = x + x + 2 = 2x + 2
\]

So the equation becomes:
2x + 2 = 156


Step 2: Isolate the Term with x

Subtract 2 from both sides to eliminate the constant term on the left:

Final Thoughts

\[
2x + 2 - 2 = 156 - 2
\]
\[
2x = 154
\]


Step 3: Solve for x

Now divide both sides by 2 to solve for x:

\[
x = \frac{154}{2} = 77
\]


Final Answer

\[
\boxed{x = 77}
\]


Why Understanding Each Step Matters