ACT Math · Linear equations and inequalities

Solve for x: -3x + 7 ≤ 22.

Solve for xx: −3x+7≤22-3x + 7 \leq 22.

Answer and explanation

Answer: F: x ≥ -5

Subtract 77 from both sides: −3x≤15-3x\le 15. Divide both sides by −3-3 and reverse the inequality symbol because you are dividing by a negative number: x≥−5x\ge -5, choice F. Test x=0x=0: 7≤227\le 22 is true, and 0≥−50\ge-5 is true. Choice G, x≤−5x\le-5, has the right boundary but forgets to reverse the symbol; testing x=0x=0 shows it fails. Choice H, x≤5x\le 5, makes a sign error on the boundary and also forgets to reverse. Choice J, x≥5x\ge 5, reverses the symbol but gets the boundary's sign wrong. Whenever you multiply or divide an inequality by a negative number, flip the direction.

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