To solve the problem, "A number decreased by 4 is equal to -6. Find the number," follow these steps:
1. Let the unknown number be [tex]\( x \)[/tex].
2. Translate the problem statement into an equation:
[tex]\[
x - 4 = -6
\][/tex]
3. To isolate [tex]\( x \)[/tex], you need to eliminate the -4 on the left side. You can do this by adding 4 to both sides of the equation:
[tex]\[
x - 4 + 4 = -6 + 4
\][/tex]
4. Simplify both sides of the equation:
[tex]\[
x = -2
\][/tex]
Thus, the number is [tex]\( -2 \)[/tex].
