1. **Problem:** Solve the equation $\log x = 3$. 2. **Recall the definition:** $\log x$ means logarithm base 10, so $\log x = 3$ means $10^3 = x$. 3. **Apply the definition:** $$x = 10^3$$ 4. **Calculate:** $$x = 1000$$ 5. **Answer:** The solution to $\log x = 3$ is $x = 1000$.