1. The problem is to solve the equation $$-8 + 5x = 8x + 4$$ for $x$. 2. To isolate $x$, we first want to get all $x$ terms on one side and constants on the other. 3. Subtract $5x$ from both sides: $$-8 + 5x - 5x = 8x + 4 - 5x$$ which simplifies to $$-8 = 3x + 4$$ 4. Now, to isolate $x$, subtract 4 from both sides: $$-8 - 4 = 3x + 4 - 4$$ which simplifies to $$-12 = 3x$$ 5. Finally, divide both sides by 3 to solve for $x$: $$\frac{-12}{\cancel{3}} = \frac{3x}{\cancel{3}}$$ which simplifies to $$x = -4$$ 6. The solution is $x = -4$. Regarding the multiplication placeholders in the box: - To keep the equation balanced, if you multiply the left side by a number, you must multiply the right side by the same number. - For example, multiplying both sides by 1 keeps the equation unchanged: $$-8 \times 1 = (3x + 4) \times 1$$ This ensures equality is maintained. Final answer: $x = -4$