Subtracting the same number from both sides of an equation results in an equivalent equation. Let $a,$ $b,$ and $c$ be real numbers. The Subtraction Property of Equality is an axiom, so it does not need a proof. This property is one of the Properties of Equality that can be used when solving equations. Consider an example. By subtracting $2$ from both sides of the equation, the variable $x$ can be isolated and the solution to the equation can be found. Note that the Subtraction Property of Equality also holds true if $a,$ $b,$ and $c$ are complex numbers.