Question

How do you simplify
9+.5(7n-26)-8n

Answer 1

Multiply .5 by 7n and -26: 9+3.5n-13-8n. Combine like terms: -4-4.5n. You could also divide by -1: 4+4.5n. Im not sure what your teacher wants, but I believe 4+4.5n is the answer :)

Answer 2

Answer: -4.5n - 4

Calculation/Explanation:
Distribute;
9 + (0.5)(7n) + (0.5)(-26) + -8n
= 9 + 3.5n + -13 + -8n

Combine Like Terms:
= 9 + 3.5n + -13 + -8n
= (3.5n + -8n) + (9 + -13)
= -4.5n + -4