Step One
Set up the equation.
Let x be the smallest number. A consecutive integer is one that follows after another number that is smaller. The difference between the two numbers is one.
x + x + 1 + x + 2 + x + 3 = 154
Step Two
Collect all the like terms on the left.
4x + 6 = 154
Step 3
Solve
4x + 6 = 154 Subtract 6 from both sides.
4x = 154 - 6
4x = 148 Divide by 4
x = 148 / 4
x = 37
The smallest number is 37 <<<<< answer.
