First, find what $5(x - 2)$ becomes when you distribute. Then, separately find what $3(x + 4)$ becomes. Do not combine them until both are expanded.

After expanding, you will have several $x$ terms and several constant numbers. Group the $x$ terms together and the constants together, then add them.

In Desmos, type f(x) = 5(x - 2) + 3(x + 4) to represent the original expression.

On new lines, type A(x) = 8x + 2, B(x) = 8x - 2, C(x) = 2x + 8, and D(x) = 8x + 14 so you can compare them to $f(x)$.

Create a table for $f(x)$ (click the table icon next to it), then add the same $x$-values (for example, $x = 0, 1, 2$) to the tables for $A(x)$, $B(x)$, $C(x)$, and $D(x)$. The correct choice is the one whose values match $f(x)$ for all tested $x$-values.

Use the distributive property to multiply the number outside each set of parentheses by both terms inside.

For $5(x - 2)$:

For $3(x + 4)$:

Now add the two expanded expressions together:

Group the like terms (the $x$ terms together and the constant terms together):

Add the $x$ terms and the constants separately:

So the simplified expression is

Therefore, the expression equivalent to $5(x - 2) + 3(x + 4)$ is $8x + 2$ (choice A).