What is the first step in solving the equation 12 X +7 equals 04X

The first step in solving the equation 12x + 7 = 4x is to simplify both sides of the equation by combining like terms.

12x + 7 = 4x
First, subtract 4x from both sides to isolate the variable on one side of the equation:
12x + 7 - 4x = 4x - 4x
This simplifies to:
8x + 7 = 0

Now, subtract 7 from both sides to further isolate the variable on one side:
8x + 7 - 7 = 0 - 7
This simplifies to:
8x = -7