The problem is to solve the linear equation $-2x - 6 = 8$ for $x$.

1. Problem Description

The problem is to solve the linear equation $-2x - 6 = 8$ for $x$.

2. Solution Steps

We want to isolate $x$ on one side of the equation.

First, add 6 to both sides of the equation:

$-2x - 6 + 6 = 8 + 6$

$-2x = 14$

Next, divide both sides by -2:

$\frac{-2x}{-2} = \frac{14}{-2}$

$x = -7$

3. Final Answer

$x = -7$