solve for x. $-7 + \\log_{3}(x + 7) = -4$ $x = \\square$

$solve for x. $-7 + \\log_{3}(x + 7) = -4$ $x = \\square$$

solve for x.
$-7 + \log_{3}(x + 7) = -4$
$x = \square$

Add 7 to both sides of the equation.
$$-7 + \log_3(x+7) + 7 = -4 + 7$$
$$\log_3(x+7) = 3$$

Use the rule $\log_b(a)=c \implies b^c=a$.
$$3^3 = x + 7$$
$$27 = x + 7$$

Subtract 7 from both sides.
$$x = 27 - 7$$

$x = 20$