What it looks like
x + 2 = 5
Subtract means take away. x had 2 added to it and that made 5.
To get x on its own, subtract the 2. Subtracting undoes adding.
Worked example 1
x + 2 = 5
Subtract 2 from both sides
x = 3
Check it: 3 + 2 is 5. It works.
Worked example 2
x + 7 = 15
Subtract 7 from both sides
x = 8
Check it: 8 + 7 is 15.
The most common mistake
Subtracting a different number from the one in the puzzle.
Not this
x + 7 = 15, subtract 5 from both sides
x + 2 = 10
There is still a number next to x.
This
x + 7 = 15, subtract 7 from both sides
x = 8
Subtract the same number that is next to x. Then nothing is left beside it.
In the game
You meet these puzzles in the Enchanted Forest.