Four less than half a number is 17. How would I solve this?

The answer to this problem is 42

First, let's define the number we are looking for as n.

So "half a number" is (1/2) * n

Therefore, "four less than" this would be: ((12) * n) - 4

And if this is or, in other words, = to #17 we can write the equation:

((12) * n) - 4=17

Solving for n while keeping the equation balanced gives:

((12) * n) - 4+4=17+4

(12) * n=21

(21) * (12) * n=21 * (21)

((21) * (12)) * n = 421

1*n=42

n = 42