The equation doubles \(x\) and then adds \(5\). To undo this, subtract \(5\) first: \(2x=12\).

Then divide by \(2\): \(x=6\). Check: \(2\times6+5=17\).

If dividing both sides first, every term on the left would also need division, giving \(\displaystyle x+\frac{5}{2}=\frac{17}{2}\), not the learner’s expression.

Answer

\(x=6\). The learner divided the total before removing the added constant.