Digital PSAT Math Practice Question 282: Answer and Explanation

Question: 282

What is the smallest possible value for x in this inequality?

-2x + 3 ≤ -5

• A. 4
• B. 1
• C. 0
• D. -6

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) Solve inequalities just like any other equation, but remember to flip the sign of the inequality any time you multiply or divide by a negative number. The first step is to subtract 3 from both sides so that all of the constants are on the right and all of the variables are on the left:

- 2x ≤ - 8

Next, you have to divide by - 2, remembering to flip your inequality since it is a negative number: x ≥ 4. Because x must be greater than or equal to 4, it must be at least 4. Therefore, the correct choice is choice (A).