Two fewer than a number doubled is the same as the number decreased by 38. Find the number

-36

Step-by-step explanation:

Let's say the number is x.

"Two fewer than a number doubled" means that we have 2 less than 2x, which can be written as 2x - 2.

"The number decreased by 38" means that have 38 less than the number x, which can be written as x - 38.

The problem says that these are equal to each other:

2x - 2 = x - 38

We combine like terms by subtracting the x from both sides and adding 2 to both sides:

2x - x = - 38 + 2

x = - 36

Thus, the answer is - 36.