If you look at the problems, it requires combining like-term numbers and distributing (variables, coefficients, etc). So to combine like-term numbers, you should look for the same variables and/or coefficients. But, if there are parentheses '()' in the equations, you must distribute (multiply) them first and then combine like-terms.
For example, in problem #2 you see -2(3x + 15) [tex]\leq[/tex] 42
So first, distribute.
-6x -30 [tex]\leq[/tex] 42
Now solve. Make sure you don't let the inequality sign confuse or trick you. It is just like when solving a two-step equation. So if I were you, I would pretend the inequality sign is an equal sign '='
Inverse operation: Turn -30 into +30 and add to 42.
-6x -30 [tex]\leq[/tex] 42
+30 [tex]\leq[/tex] +30
----------------------
-6x [tex]\leq[/tex] 72
Inverse operation: Turn -6x into /-6 (division)
-6x/-6x [tex]\leq[/tex] 72
Now, here is the tricky part. When dividing or multiplying a negative coefficient (for example -6x is a negative coefficient) you MUST flip the inequality sign.
x [tex]\geq[/tex] -12
That's how you solve this and I hope this helps you :D
