Solve each equation for $x$. Check your solutions.

1. $| 2 x + 5 |= 21$

   Hint (a):

   The expression inside of the absolute value bars can be $21$ or $-21$.

   Answer (a):

   $x = -13$ or $x = 8$

2. $2| 3 x - 2 |= 24$

   Hint (b):

   Start by dividing both sides by $2$.

3. $| 4 x + 5 |- 8 = 31$

   Answer (c):

   $x = \frac{17}{2}$ or $-11$