How would I solve: 2x-3(5/3 - x/3)=-17
2x-3(5/3 - x/3)=-17 distribute the -3 across the terms in the parentheses
2x - 5 + x = -17 simplify
3x - 5 = -17 add 5 to both sides
3x = -12 divide by 3 on both sides
x = -4