solution: Since everything in sight is even, we should begin by dividing by 2.  That gives \[-2<x-1<4.\] To isolate $x$, we add 1, so \[-1<x<5.\] Since $a=-1$ and $b=5$, we get $a+b=-1+5=\boxed{4}$.
prompt.content: <|im_start|>system
  You are a helpful assistant.<|im_end|>
  <|im_start|>user
  The solution to $-4 < 2(x - 1) < 8$ is expressed in the form $a < x < b$. Find the value of $a + b$.
  Please reason step by step, and put your final answer within \boxed{{}}.<|im_end|>
  <|im_start|>assistant
  
prompt.role: user
extra_info.answer: 4
extra_info.question: The solution to $-4 < 2(x - 1) < 8$ is expressed in the form $a < x < b$. Find the value of $a + b$.
extra_info.split: test