1. Let's start by understanding the problem without using letters. 2. Suppose you have a number, and you want to perform some operations on it. 3. For example, if you add 5 to a number and then subtract 3, the result is the same as adding 2 to the original number. 4. We can show this step by step: - Start with a number: say 10. - Add 5: 10 + 5 = 15. - Subtract 3: 15 - 3 = 12. - Alternatively, add 2 directly to the original number: 10 + 2 = 12. 5. Both methods give the same result, 12. 6. This shows how operations can be combined and simplified. 7. If you want to see a specific example or problem, please provide the details, and I can show the working out without letters again.