Question 110694: how do you translate a word problems into an equation
Answer by solver91311(24713)   (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website! This is an impossible question to answer, since word problems have nearly infinite variety. But I'll give you a few 'rules of thumb' that may help.
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The first thing to do is to decide what your variable or variables will be. Frequently, but not always, it is convenient to choose a variable to represent the quantity or quantities that you are trying to calculate. For example, if the question ended, "How many nickels did Bob have?" you might want to choose n to represent the number of nickels he had. This has the advantage that, once you have found a value for the selected variable, you have answered the question and you are done.
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Another thing to watch for are key words. For example, 'sum,''plus,' and 'more than' indicate you should be adding, while 'difference,' and 'less than' indicate subtraction. 'Product' and 'times' indicate multiplication. And 'quotient' implies division.
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Try to figure out from the wording of the problem how things are related. If you are doing a time/rate/distance problem, remember the formula:  . Many problems only imply relationships that should be obivious, such as a trip to the store at one speed and the return trip at a different speed; in such a case it is safe to assume that the distance from home to the store remains constant regardless of which direction you are travelling.
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Also, make sure you have the formulae for perimeters, areas, and volumes close at hand.
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When you do get an answer, look closely to see if it makes sense. You should always check your answer to see if it fits ALL of the criteria established by the problem.
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The short answer to your question is that there is no easy answer. You have to use a little imagination and creativity coupled with your mathematical skill to be successful. It isn't easy, which is why the word 'homework' contains the word 'work.'
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