Question 401953

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"