how to solve this simple equation I'm trying to solve a bigger problem however I am stuck at this step: 
How can I solve:
$$
2^x - x = 5
$$
any hints/tips/steps please?

As alluded to in the comments there is an integer solution.  For the other solution is existence of a solution good enough?  You can use the Intermediate Value Theorem on the function $f(x)=2^x-x-5$.  It is negative at $x=0$ and positive at $x=-6$.  So, somewhere in between the IVT says there must be a $0$.  Or you can use Newton's method on $f$ to approximate the $0$ of $f$.
