1. **State the problem:** We need to find the value of $p$ in the equation $$2 + p = 7$$. 2. **Use the formula:** To isolate $p$, subtract 2 from both sides of the equation. 3. **Perform the subtraction:** $$2 + p = 7$$ Subtract 2 from both sides: $$\cancel{2} + p = 7 - \cancel{2}$$ which simplifies to $$p = 5$$ 4. **Conclusion:** The value of $p$ is 5.