1. **State the problem:** Solve for $q$ in the equation $$-q - 12q + 12q - 8 = 12$$. 2. **Combine like terms:** The terms with $q$ are $-q$, $-12q$, and $+12q$. Combine them: $$-q - 12q + 12q = -q + \cancel{-12q + 12q} = -q$$ So the equation simplifies to: $$-q - 8 = 12$$ 3. **Isolate the variable term:** Add 8 to both sides to move the constant term: $$-q - 8 + 8 = 12 + 8$$ $$-q = 20$$ 4. **Solve for $q$:** Multiply both sides by $-1$ to get $q$ positive: $$\cancel{-1} \times -q = \cancel{-1} \times 20$$ $$q = -20$$ **Final answer:** $$q = -20$$