E Evaluate the expression - 8x + 5 - 2x - 4 + 5x when x = 2

before and after simplifying. Which method do you prefer? Explain.

I believe the answer is - 9

Before simplifying:

-8x + 5 - 2x - 4 + 5x

= - 8*2 + 5 - 2*2 - 4 + 5*2

= - 16 + 5 - 4 - 4 + 10

= - 9

After simplifying:

-8x + 5 - 2x - 4 + 5x

= - 5x + 1

= - 5*2 + 1

= - 10 + 1

= - 9

I prefer evaluating the expression after simplifying because it is quicker, as there are less individual values to add together at the end. Therefore, it is easier to avoid mistakes.