There could be 1, 0 or infinite solutions. Solve for x to determine which it is. Most likely, you will get a version of x = some value. If so, you have one solution. If all the x's cancel and you end up with a true statement, like 0=0, then you have infinite solutions. If all the x's cancel and you end up with a false statement, like 0=1, then you have 0 solutions.
17x-8=3x+16
Move all terms with x to the left side. All other terms move to the right side. Remember to switch signs when you switch sides.
17x-3x = 16+8
Simplify each side.
14x = 24
Divide each side by 14.
x = 24/14 = 12/7 = 1 5/7
You have one solution.