Solution
Related Formula
ax + b = cx + d (a - c)x = d - bCore Logic
Solve 5a - 7 = 2a - 22 for a:
5a - 2a = -22 + 7 3a = -15 a = -5Step 1: Calculate Target Expression
Substitute a = -5 into a + 2:
a + 2 = -5 + 2 = -3Thus, option B is correct.
Pattern Recognition
Trap alert: do not stop at a = -5; always check what the question asks for (a + 2).
Chapter Mix
SAT Math: Heart of Algebra