To simplify the given expression, let's break it down step by step.

Expression:

$9x - 3 - (x + 4) - 2$

Step 1: Distribute the negative sign to the terms inside the parentheses.

$9x - 3 - x - 4 - 2$

Step 2: Combine like terms.

• Combine the $x$ terms: $9x - x = 8x$
• Combine the constant terms: $-3 - 4 - 2 = -9$

Simplified Expression:

$8x - 9$

So, the simplified form of the expression is $\mathbf{8x - 9}$.

Would you like more details, or do you have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to consider:

1. How do you distribute a negative sign across an expression in parentheses?
2. What are the steps to combine like terms in an algebraic expression?
3. Can you simplify the expression $7x + 5 - (2x + 3)$?
4. What is the importance of order of operations in simplifying expressions?
5. How would you solve the equation $8x - 9 = 0$?

Tip: Always remember to distribute negative signs and combine like terms to simplify algebraic expressions effectively.