What it looks like
2(x + 3) = 10
2(x + 3) means 2 times everything inside the brackets. Divide both sides by the number in front.
The brackets fall away. What is left is a puzzle you already know.
Worked example 1
2(x + 3) = 10
Divide both sides by 2
x + 3 = 5
Subtract 3 from both sides
x = 2
Check it: 2 + 3 is 5. Then 2 times 5 is 10. It works.
Worked example 2
This one takes three spells.
3(2x + 4) = 18
Divide both sides by 3
2x + 4 = 6
Subtract 4 from both sides
2x = 2
Divide both sides by 2
x = 1
An answer of 1 can look too small. It is right.
Check it: 2 times 1 is 2. Then 2 + 4 is 6. Then 3 times 6 is 18.
The most common mistake
Going for the number inside the brackets first.
Not this
2(x + 3) = 10, subtract 3 from both sides
2(x + 3) − 3 = 7
The 3 inside the brackets has not gone.
This
2(x + 3) = 10, divide both sides by 2
x + 3 = 5
You cannot reach inside the brackets while a number is in front of them. Deal with the number in front first.
In the game
You meet these puzzles in the Crystal Caverns.