Which is a reasonable first step that can be used to solve the equation 2 (x + 6) = 3 (x minus 4) + 5? Combine like terms, 3 and 5, on the right side of the equation. Distribute 2 to (x + 6) and 3 to (x – 4). Distribute 2 to x on the left side of the equation and 3 to x on the right side of the equation. Apply the subtraction property of equality to move the 6 from the left side of the equation to the right side.