When a number is subtracted from 2, the result equals 4 less than one-fifth of the number. Find the number

Analyze the question: "A number is subtracted from 2" means 2 − x. The result equals "4 less than one-fifth of the number," which means x/5 − 4.

Set up the equation:

2 − x = x/5 − 4

Solve:

Multiply both sides by 5 to clear the fraction:

10 − 5x = x − 20

Collect like terms:

10 + 20 = x + 5x

30 = 6x

x = 5

Check:

• Left side: 2 − 5 = −3
• Right side: 5/5 − 4 = 1 − 4 = −3 ✓

Both sides match, so the number is 5.

Tip: Translate the wording carefully:

• "A subtracted from B" means B − A (the order flips).
• "4 less than Y" means Y − 4.

Always substitute your answer back into the original statement to confirm it works.