Let's simplify the expression step by step:

Given expression:

$2(3a - 4) + (-3)(a + 2)$

Step 1: Distribute the constants into the parentheses.

• Distribute $2$ to both terms inside the first parentheses:

$2(3a - 4) = 2 \cdot 3a - 2 \cdot 4 = 6a - 8$

• Distribute $-3$ to both terms inside the second parentheses:

$(-3)(a + 2) = -3 \cdot a - 3 \cdot 2 = -3a - 6$

Now, substitute these back into the original expression:

$6a - 8 + (-3a - 6)$

Step 2: Combine like terms.

• Combine the $a$-terms: $6a - 3a = 3a$
• Combine the constant terms: $-8 - 6 = -14$

Thus, the simplified expression is:

$3a - 14$

Final Answer:

$3a - 14$

Would you like more details on any specific step? Or do you have any other questions?

Related Questions:

1. How would you solve an equation involving $3a - 14$?
2. What happens if you factor the expression $3a - 14$?
3. How do you solve expressions involving multiple variables?
4. Can you solve a system of equations using expressions like this one?
5. How do you handle expressions with fractions or exponents?

Tip: Always distribute carefully and check for like terms before combining them!