1. We start from step 4, where we simplify the equation by dividing both sides by a common factor. 2. Suppose the equation at step 4 is $$\frac{6x}{3} = \frac{9}{3}$$. 3. We apply the rule that dividing numerator and denominator by the same number does not change the value, so we write: $$\frac{\cancel{3} \cdot 2x}{\cancel{3}} = \frac{\cancel{3} \cdot 3}{\cancel{3}}$$ 4. After canceling, the equation simplifies to: $$2x = 3$$ 5. This step is important because it reduces the equation to a simpler form, making it easier to solve. 6. Next, to isolate $x$, we divide both sides by 2: $$\frac{2x}{2} = \frac{3}{2}$$ 7. Again, we cancel the common factor 2: $$\frac{\cancel{2} x}{\cancel{2}} = \frac{3}{2}$$ 8. This leaves us with: $$x = \frac{3}{2}$$ 9. So, the solution is $x = \frac{3}{2}$. 10. The key takeaway is that canceling common factors simplifies the equation step-by-step, making it easier to solve for the unknown variable.