1. **Problem:** Solve the equation $x - 5 = 2x - 8$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To solve a first-degree equation, isolate the variable $x$ on one side by adding or subtracting terms and then divide if necessary. 3. **Step 1:** Subtract $x$ from both sides to get all $x$ terms on one side: $$x - 5 = 2x - 8 \implies \cancel{x} - 5 = 2\cancel{x} - 8 \implies -5 = x - 8$$ 4. **Step 2:** Add 8 to both sides to isolate $x$: $$-5 + 8 = x - 8 + 8 \implies 3 = x$$ 5. **Answer:** $x = 3$ This means when $x$ is 3, both sides of the equation are equal.