-4 (z-12) = 42 equals z = \(\frac{3}{2}\) or 1.5
First, divide both sides by -4. Your problem should look like: z - 12 = \(\frac{42}{-4}\).
Second, simplify \(\frac{42}{-4}\) to \(\frac{42}{4}\). Your problem should look like: z - 12 = \(- \frac{42}{4}\).
Third, simplify \(\frac{42}{4}\) to \(\frac{21}{2}\). Your problem should look like: z - 12 = -\(\frac{21}{2}\).
Fourth, add 12 to both sides. Your problem should look like: z = -\(\frac{21}{2}\) + 12.
Fifth, simplify \(- \frac{21}{2}\) + 12 to \(\frac{3}{2}\). Your problem should look like: z = \(\frac{3}{2}\) which is the answer.
Answer as a fraction: \(\frac{3}{2}\)
Answer as a decimal: 1.5
