SOLVING WORD PROBLEMS

1. Read the problem (MAKE SURE YOU KNOW THE MEANING OF THE WORDS)
2. Read the problem
3. If possible draw a picture of the problem.
4. Identify what you are looking for and select a variable to represent it.

Example:
• Add three and four.
• Select a variable – lets use t
• Identify what t represents t = the sum of 3 and 4

5. Set up an equation to solve the problem
       Therefore t = 3 + 4
6. Solve the equation.
        t = 7
7. Check your answer by substituting it into the original problem.
        7 = 3 + 4
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