Consider the equation $7 = 3x − 5$.

1. Stanley wants to start solving the equation by adding $5$ to both sides, while Terrence first wants to subtract $7$ from both sides. Will both strategies work? Is one strategy more efficient than the other?

   Hint (a):

   Solving the equation ultimately involves isolating $x$ to determine its value. If both strategies are working towards isolating $x$ through different methods, will both strategies work?

   More Help (a):

   Does one strategy require fewer steps to isolate $x$? Is the strategy of adding $5$ to both sides rather than subtracting $7$ a more efficient and direct method?

2. Solve $7 = 3x − 5$. Show your steps.

   Hint (b):

   $7 = 3x − 5$

   Step 1:

   Add 5 to both sides.
   
   $12 = 3x$

   Answer (b):

   $4 = x$