If three times a number increased by 4, the result is -8

The original number is -4.

Explanation:

Let the original number be n.

Next, three times the number is equal to 3n.

Then, increased by 4 means 4 is added.

Hence, three times a number increased by 4 equals -8 is written in the equation form as shown below.

=>  3n + 4 = -8

=> 3n = -8 + (-4)

Since the number, 4, goes on the other side of the equal sign, the number positive 4 changes its sign and becomes negative 4, as shown above.

=> 3n = -8 -4

=> 3n = -12

=> n = -12/3

=> n = -4

Checking the above solution.

Three times the number is equal to 3 * (-4) = -12.

The above product when increased by 4 gives the equation as shown.

-12 + 4 = -8.

The result is -8.

This result is same as the result mentioned in the given question, -8.

Hence, the answer that -4 is the original number is correct.