DAY 28

Comment

This looks complex and might be thought to require formal equation solving techniques (such as 'multiply both sides of the equation by e+3).
A different approach that works well here is to use a method of 'inspection', where one starts by asking a question like '24 divided by what is 3?'.

Answer

5.

Readers' methods

LT from GU10, Surrey:
24 = 3e + 9,
so 3e = 15,
so e = 5.

Gareth D, Kessingland NR33:
24 = 3(e + 3)
8 = e + 3
5 = e.

Adnaan J, Slough SL7
Let e+3 = x,
therefore 24/x = 3,
then x = 8,
& e+3 = 8,
end result: e=5.

Jackie M, Newport NP18
Multiply both sides by e+3 giving
24 = 3(e+3). Multiply the bracket:
24 = 3e + 9 . Take 9 from each side:
15 = 3e. Divide both sides by 3:
5 = e.

Saskia M, Swinderby, Lincoln, LN6:
24/e+3=3
24=3(e+3)
24=3e+9
(24-9)=3e
15=3e
(15/3)=e
5=e
e=5.