1. **State the problem:** Solve for $x$ in the equation $x + 2 = 5$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To isolate $x$, subtract 2 from both sides of the equation. 3. **Intermediate work:** $$x + 2 = 5$$ Subtract 2 from both sides: $$x + \cancel{2} - \cancel{2} = 5 - 2$$ 4. **Simplify:** $$x = 3$$ 5. **Explanation:** We moved the constant term 2 to the right side by subtracting it from both sides, leaving $x$ alone on the left side. This gives the solution $x = 3$.