The steps below show the incomplete solution to find the value of x for the equation 5x − 2x − 3 = −2 + 9:

Step 1: 5x − 2x − 3 = −2 + 9
Step 2: 5x − 2x − 3 = 7
Step 3: 3x − 3 = 7

Which of these is most likely the next step? (4 points)

a
3x = 16

b
3x = 10

c
3x = 39

d
3x = 3