Algebra Practice Test

To simplify the expression \( 7 - 2(5 - 2x) \), first, distribute the \(-2\) into the parentheses. This involves multiplying \(-2\) by both terms inside the parentheses:

\[

7 - 2 \cdot 5 + 2 \cdot 2x

\]

Calculating this gives:

\[

7 - 10 + 4x

\]

Next, combine the like terms \(7 - 10\):

\[

-3 + 4x

\]

Rearranging the terms gives:

\[

4x - 3

\]

This is the correct simplification of the initial expression, leading us to the choice of \(4x - 3\). Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the process of distribution and combination of like terms engaged throughout the simplification.