Let's simplify the expression $x - (2y + 3x) - 2$.

Step 1: Distribute the negative sign inside the parentheses.

The negative sign in front of $(2y + 3x)$ distributes to both terms inside the parentheses: $x - 2y - 3x - 2$

Step 2: Combine like terms.

• Combine $x$ and $-3x$: $x - 3x = -2x$ So the expression becomes: $-2x - 2y - 2$

Final Answer:

$-2x - 2y - 2$

Would you like a deeper explanation or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

1. How do you distribute negative signs in more complex expressions?
2. How do you identify like terms when simplifying expressions?
3. Can you factor out any common terms in the final expression?
4. How would this process change if there were exponents in the expression?
5. How do parentheses affect the order of operations in simplifications?

Tip: Always handle parentheses first in expressions to avoid mistakes in distributing negative signs!