As an inventory manager, you are balancing a weekly stock model where the number of restock units, $u$, is calculated using the equation $\frac{1}{3}(6u + 3) = 7 - u$. Recalling the general strategy for solving linear equations, what is the proper first step to begin isolating $u$?

A logistics coordinator at a delivery firm uses the equation $\frac{1}{3}(6u + 3) = 7 - u$ to determine the optimal hours $u$ for a driver's route. Arrange the following steps of the general strategy in the correct order to solve for $u$.

A logistics coordinator at a delivery firm uses the equation $\frac{1}{3}(6u + 3) = 7 - u$ to determine the optimal number of delivery units $u$. Match each step of the general strategy with the resulting equation that correctly represents the state of the problem after that specific action is taken.

Verification of Process Solutions

As a production supervisor balancing assembly line times, you model the required machine hours ($u$) with the equation $\frac{1}{3}(6u + 3) = 7 - u$. According to the general solving strategy, verifying your answer is the final step. When verifying the solution $u = 2$, substituting the value 2 into the original equation results in both sides evaluating to the number 5.

As a supply chain analyst, you are using the general strategy to solve the equation $\frac{1}{3}(6u + 3) = 7 - u$ to determine the optimal number of shipping units $u$. The first step of this strategy involves simplifying the left side of the equation. To do this, you must ____ the fraction $\frac{1}{3}$ to both terms inside the parentheses.

Clinic Scheduling Equation: General Solving Strategy