Five less than 3 times a number is -20. Find the number.
Ans : Let the required number = x 3 times the number = 3x 5 less than 3 times the number = 3x - 5 According to statement : 3x - 5 = -20 ⇒ 3x = -20 + 5 ⇒ 3x = -15 ⇒ x = -5 Required number = -5