16 decreased by 3 times the sum of 3 and a number
By Isabella Wilson
Take this algebraic expression in parts:
- The phrase a number means an arbitrary variable. Let's call it x.
- The sum of 3 and a number: 3 + x
- 3 times the sum: 3(3 + x)
- 16 decreased by... means we subtract 3(3 + x) from 16
3(3 + x) from 16
