1. **State the problem:** Translate and solve the equation "4 less than 5 times a number equals 16". 2. **Write the algebraic equation:** Let the number be $x$. The phrase "5 times a number" is $5x$. "4 less than 5 times a number" means subtract 4 from $5x$, so the equation is: $$5x - 4 = 16$$ 3. **Solve the equation:** Add 4 to both sides to isolate the term with $x$: $$5x - \cancel{4} + \cancel{4} = 16 + 4$$ $$5x = 20$$ 4. **Divide both sides by 5 to solve for $x$:** $$\frac{5x}{\cancel{5}} = \frac{20}{\cancel{5}}$$ $$x = 4$$ 5. **Answer:** The number is $4$.