Question 1202710
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The ratio of boys to girls among the students who signed up for a basketball competition is 4:3. 
If 3 boys drop out of the competition and 4 girls join, there will be the same number 
of boys and girls. Evaluate the number of students who signed up for the basketball competition.
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<pre>
Initially, 4x boys and 3x girls are signed.

If these numbers change as described, the number of boys will be (4x-3); the number of girls will be (3x+4).


These numbers are equal, so we write this equation

    4x - 3 = 3x + 4.


It gives further

    4x - 3x = 4 + 3

       x    =   7.


<U>ANSWER</U>.  The number of signed boys is 4*7 = 28;  the number of signed girls is 3*7 = 21.
</pre>

Solved.


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I have read Edwin's notes about my solution, and do not understand clearly,
for what reason he wrote it.


I don't want very much to argue with Edwin.
But he does not leave me any option as to respond.


<pre>
      E d w i n                                 M e

I think Theo's method is better.        You may think so - it is your right.
                                        Other people may think differently.
                                        I personally think differently.


It's easier to set up word problems     You may think so - it is your right. 
when you use more than one unknown.     Other people may think differently.  
                                        I personally think differently.


Ikleyn always prefers to use one        Factually, it is incorrect.
unknown if possible.                    I may use one approach or another - it is my choice,
                                        and what I choose depends on different circumstances.
                                        Hundreds of my posts at this forum confirm it.

</pre>

Edwin, it is not a good style to pretend publicly as if you are a Lord and can issue 
your undeniable suggestions on every subject.  Adult educated people do not make so.


Please do note that it was not me who pushed the stone down the mountain first.


I cordially advise you not to let go of hairpins in my address without necessity.