1. **State the problem:** Solve the equation $x + 46 = 73$ for $x$. 2. **Formula and rules:** To isolate $x$, subtract 46 from both sides of the equation. This uses the subtraction property of equality which states if you subtract the same number from both sides, the equality holds. 3. **Intermediate work:** $$x + 46 = 73$$ Subtract 46 from both sides: $$x + 46 - \cancel{46} = 73 - \cancel{46}$$ 4. **Simplify:** $$x = 27$$ 5. **Explanation:** We found that $x$ equals 27 by removing 46 from both sides, leaving $x$ alone on the left side. **Final answer:** $$x = 27$$