The equation is – 17 = 3 + k.

(Apply subtraction property of equality: If a = b, then )

 – 17 – 3 = 3 + k – 3      (Subtract 3 from each side)

 – 17 – 3 = k                   (Apply additive inverse property: 3 – 3 = 0)

k =  – 20                         (Subtract:  – 17 – 3 =  –  20)

Check:

To check the solution substitute k =  – 20 in original equation.

– 17 = 3 – 20

– 17 = – 17                    (Subtract: 3 –  20 =  – 17)

The equality is true.

The value of k =  – 20.