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Question 401953: how do you solve the number word problems????
Answer by MathLover1(20850)   (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Word problems are a series of expressions
that fits into an equation
There are two steps to solving math word problems:
1. Translate the wording into a numeric equation
that combines smaller "expressions"
2. Solve the equation!
Suggestions:
* Read the problem entirely
Get a feel for the whole problem
* List information and the variables you identify
Attach units of measure to the variables (gallons, miles, inches, etc.)
* Define what answer you need,
as well as its units of measure
* Work in an organized manner
Working clearly will help you think clearly
o Draw and label all graphs and pictures clearly
o Note or explain each step of your process;
this will help you track variables and remember their meanings
Look for the "key" words (above)
Certain words indicate certain mathematical operations:
some vocabulary and key words:
"Per" means "divided by"
as "I drove 90 miles on three gallons of gas, so I got 30 miles per gallon" (Also 30 miles/gallon)
"a" sometimes means "divided by"
as in "When I tanked up, I paid $3.90 for three gallons, so the gas was 1.30 a gallon, or $1.30/gallon
"less than"
If you need to translate "1.5 less than x", the temptation is to write "1.5 - x". DON'T! Put a "real world" situation in, and you'll see how this is wrong: "He makes $1.50 an hour less than me." You do NOT figure his wage by subtracting your wage from $1.50. Instead, you subtract $1.50 from your wage
"quotient/ratio of" constructions
If a problems says "the ratio of x and y",
it means "x divided by y" or x/y or x÷y
"difference between/of" constructions
If the problem says "the difference of x and y",
it means "x - y"
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