1. **Stating the problem:** John had $3x$ rabbits. He sold 8 rabbits to Alex and 5 rabbits to Joseph. After selling, he was left with 32 rabbits. 2. **Forming the equation:** The total rabbits John had initially is $3x$. He sold $8 + 5 = 13$ rabbits. The remaining rabbits are $32$. So, the equation is: $$3x - 13 = 32$$ 3. **Solving the equation:** Add 13 to both sides: $$3x - 13 + 13 = 32 + 13$$ $$3x = 45$$ 4. **Divide both sides by 3 to isolate $x$:** $$\cancel{3}x = \frac{45}{\cancel{3}}$$ $$x = 15$$ **Final answer:** $$x = 15$$ This means John initially had $3 \times 15 = 45$ rabbits.