An equation and the steps to solve it are shown below:


2x − one over four (12x + 4) = 3


Step 1: 2x + 3x + 1 = 3

Step 2: 5x + 1 = 3

Step 3: 5x + 1 − 1 = 3 − 1

Step 4: 5x = 2


In which step was the error made and why?


Step 1, because incorrect signs have been used

Step 2, because the terms have been added incorrectly

Step 3, because a number has been subtracted from both sides of the equation

No error was made