We can use a variable to represent an unknown number.
n-12=20
Practice makes perfect
When translating a verbal phrase into an algebraic equation, first take note of where the equals sign should be placed. In a verbal description of an algebraic statement, "is" or "is equal to" tells us where an equals sign is located.
... = ...
The key words to note on the left-hand side of the equals sign are " the difference between ... and." This indicates that we are subtracting two terms.
... - ... = ...
We are finding " the difference between a number and 12." Recall that we can use variables to represent unknown numbers. Let's use n to represent " a number."
n - 12 = ...
Finally, we will complete the equation with the integer 20 on the right-hand side of the equals sign.
The difference between a number and 12 is 20.
n - 12 = 20
