How do I set up and solve a math word problem?
Answer
Math Word Problems (how to set up)
- Read the problem carefully. What is it asking you to find out?
- Define the variables. Ex: let X be the variable or another letter.
- Set up the equation using the qualifying words in the problem.
- addition words : added to, sum of, more than
- subtraction words: difference, less than, minus
- multiplication words: product of, twice, double
- division words: quotient of, divided by, goes into
- Solve for the variable or variables if two or more answers are required.
- State your answer in words, such as: the length is 10 in. & the width is 6 in., the integers are, the volume is, the area is & the circumference is, the price is $.
- Be clear and concise with your answers. Most of these problems are real-life situations you may deal with in your lifetime. Review your answer because if it does not make sense to you , it is probably wrong.