1. **State the problem:** Solve the equation $3.39x - 4.17x - 1.57 = 3.17$ for $x$. 2. **Combine like terms:** Combine the $x$ terms on the left side. $$3.39x - 4.17x = (3.39 - 4.17)x = -0.78x$$ So the equation becomes: $$-0.78x - 1.57 = 3.17$$ 3. **Isolate the $x$ term:** Add $1.57$ to both sides to move the constant term. $$-0.78x - 1.57 + 1.57 = 3.17 + 1.57$$ $$-0.78x = 4.74$$ 4. **Solve for $x$:** Divide both sides by $-0.78$. $$x = \frac{4.74}{-0.78}$$ Show cancellation: $$x = \frac{\cancel{4.74}}{\cancel{-0.78}} \times \frac{1}{1} = -6.0769...$$ 5. **Final answer:** Rounded to two decimal places, $$x \approx -6.08$$