To solve this equation, repeatedly do the same thing to both sides of the equation until the variable is isolated on one side of the equal sign and the answer on the other.

3y - 8 = \( \frac{y}{-4} \)
-4 x (3y - 8) = y
(-4 x 3y) + (-4 x -8) = y
-12y + 32 = y
-12y + 32 - y = 0
-12y - y = -32
-13y = -32
y = \( \frac{-32}{-13} \)
y = 2\(\frac{6}{13}\)

To multiply binomials, use the FOIL method. FOIL stands for First, Outside, Inside, Last and refers to the position of each term in the parentheses.

The area of a trapezoid is one-half the sum of the lengths of the parallel sides multiplied by the height:

a = ½(b + d)(h)
a = ½(5 + 2)(2)
a = ½(7)(2)
a = ½(14) = \( \frac{14}{2} \)
a = 7

To combine like terms, add or subtract the coefficients (the numbers that come before the variables) of terms that have the same variable raised to the same exponent.

3a + 2a = 5a

You can only add or subtract monomials that have the same variable and the same exponent. For example, 2a + 4a = 6a and 4a² - a² = 3a² but 2a + 4b and 7a - 3b cannot be combined. However, you can multiply and divide monomials with unlike terms. For example, 2a x 6b = 12ab.