1. **State the problem:** Solve for $x$ in the equation $x + 2 = 4$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To isolate $x$, subtract 2 from both sides of the equation. 3. **Intermediate work:** $$x + 2 = 4$$ Subtract 2 from both sides: $$x + \cancel{2} - \cancel{2} = 4 - 2$$ 4. **Simplify:** $$x = 2$$ 5. **Explanation:** We removed 2 from the left side by subtracting it, which must be done on the right side as well to keep the equation balanced. The value of $x$ is 2.