Simplifying: \( 60t + 320 - 80t = 280 \) → \( -20t = -40 \) → \( t = 2 \).

["# Simplifying the Equation: How to Solve ( 60t + 320 - 80t = 280 ) in 4 Simple Steps", "Solving equations might seem intimidating at first, but breaking it down step-by-step makes even the trickiest problems manageable. This guide walks you through simplifying and solving the equation:\n[ 60t + 320 - 80t = 280 ]\nto find that ( t = 2 ). Whether you're a student mastering algebra or just looking to refresh your skills, this breakdown will help simplify the process.", "## Step 1: Combine Like Terms on the Left Side\nThe first step in simplifying any linear equation is combining like terms—those terms that contain the same variable (in this case, ( t )) or constants.", "Start with:\n[ 60t + 320 - 80t = 280 ]", "Here, ( 60t ) and ( -80t ) both include ( t ). Combine them:\n[ (60t - 80t) + 320 = 280 ]\n[ -20t + 320 = 280 ]", "By combining the ( t )-terms, the equation now reads:\n[ -20t + 320 = 280 ]", "## Step 2: Move Constants to the Opposite Side\nNext, isolate the term with ( t ) by moving the constant (320) to the right side of the equation. To do this, subtract 320 from both sides—remember, whatever you do to one side, you must do to the other to keep the equation balanced.", "[ -20t + 320 - 320 = 280 - 320 ]\n[ -20t = -40 ]", "Now, the equation reflects only the term with ( t ).", "## Step 3: Solve for ( t )\nYou now have:\n[ -20t = -40 ]\nTo solve for ( t ), divide both sides by (-20) to eliminate the coefficient:", "[ t = \frac{-40}{-20} ]\n[ t = 2 ]", "This neat solution confirms that when ( t = 2 ), the original equation holds true.", "## Step 4: Verify the Solution\nIt’s always wise to plug ( t = 2 ) back into the original equation to ensure accuracy.", "Substitute ( t = 2 ):\n[ 60(2) + 320 - 80(2) = 280 ]\nCalculate each term:\n[ 120 + 320 - 160 = 280 ]\n[ 440 - 160 = 280 ]\n[ 280 = 280 ]", "Since both sides match, the solution ( t = 2 ) is confirmed.", "---", "## Why This Method Works\nAlgebra thrives on simplification—grouping similar terms reduces complexity, makes step-by-step solving feasible, and ensures accuracy when verifying results. Solving ( 60t + 320 - 80t = 280 ) demonstrates how strategic combining, moving constants, and isolating variables lead directly to the answer.", "Whether you’re learning homework, tackling tests, or building foundational math skills, mastering these steps makes equation solving intuitive and efficient.", "#### Key Takeaways:\n- Combine like terms to simplify equations.\n- Use inverse operations to isolate variables.\n- Always verify your solution.", "Start simplifying your equations today—you’ll be solving them with ease before long!", "---\nKeywords: solve linear equation, simplify algebra, step-by-step equation solving, t in equation, algebraic equation techniques, step 1 equation simplification, verify algebra solution, solving 60t + 320 - 80t = 280."]