Question

one way you could solve this equation is by dividing first. show how you could divide both sides by the same number so that one group of (x - 4) remains on the left. then, rewrite the equation.
-8(x - 4) = -56

Explanation:

Step1: Identify divisor for left side

To isolate $(x-4)$, divide left side by $-8$.
$\frac{-8(x-4)}{-8}$

Step2: Divide right side by same number

Divide right side by $-8$ to keep equality.
$\frac{-56}{-8}$

Step3: Simplify both expressions

Calculate the simplified form of each side.
$x-4 = 7$

Answer:

First row blanks (divisors): $\boldsymbol{-8}$ and $\boldsymbol{-8}$
Second row blanks (simplified equation): $\boldsymbol{x-4}$ and $\boldsymbol{7}$