Solve 5x + 8 < 3(x + 2)

In order to solve inequalities in one variable, follow the order of operations (PEMDAS) to simplify the expressions, then combine like terms, then isolate the variable. Inequalities can be treated much like equations, but with one major difference: when multiplying or dividing either side of an inequality by a negative value, the direction of the inequality symbol must switch. In this case, begin by multiplying the 3 through the parentheses, before then isolating the variable:
5x + 8 < 3(x + 2)
5x + 8 < 3x + 6
2x + 8 < 6
2x < −2
x < −1