1. **State the problem:** The sum of 3 and a number equals 4 times the number. We need to find the number. 2. **Set up the equation:** Let the number be $x$. The problem states: $$3 + x = 4x$$ 3. **Solve the equation:** Subtract $x$ from both sides: $$3 + \cancel{x} = 4\cancel{x} - x$$ $$3 = 3x$$ 4. **Isolate $x$:** Divide both sides by 3: $$\frac{3}{\cancel{3}} = \frac{3x}{\cancel{3}}$$ $$1 = x$$ 5. **Answer:** The number is $1$.