The length of each side of the square is decreased by 2 inches, so the perimeter is now 48 inches. What was the original length of each side of the square

X=original length of each side of the square.

perimeter: sum of all sides=4 (length of the side)

The length of each side of the new square will be = (x-2)

we can suggest this equation:

4 (x-2) = 48

We solve this equation:

4 (x-2) = 48

4x-8=48

4x=48+8

4x=56

x=56/4

x=14

Answer: the original length of each side of the square would be 14 in.