What are the challenges? To know how to translate word problems into a workable mathematical equation. To know where to start and how to go about figuring out the answer. To know the strategies needed to break down a word problem so it is clear and easy to solve. Students fear and hate doing them!

6 Steps for Tackling Math Word Problems

Step 1 Convert the words into an equation. Read through the entire problem first. Don’t try to solve it when you’ve only read one sentence. Read the problem completely in order to get the whole picture. Effectively translate and solve the problem.

Step 2 Go back to the beginning. Reread the first sentence. Write down what you know and what you don’t know. Use variables to stand for the unknowns and clearly label what they stand for. Do the same for the second sentence and each following sentence.

Step 3 Look for Signal Words that mean certain mathematical operations.

Signal Words Addition Subtraction Multiplication Division Equals

Addition Added toTogether CombinedAltogether Increased byJoined More thanDeposit PlusSum Total

Subtraction Decreased by Less Difference between Less than How many more Fewer than Minus Subtract (from) How many left Withdraw How much change Reduce Amount remaining Deducted How much greater Debt Penalty

Multiplication Multiplied by Of Product of Times Twice (2 X) Same amount Each (with all)

Division Divided by Out of Per Percent Quotient of Ratio of Each Share equally

Equals Are Gives IsYields Sold for Was Were Will be

Step 4 Perform the required operations.

Step 5 Make sure you are answering the question that is being asked of you. One step may seem like it’s the answer, but it may take several steps to arrive at the final answer. Don’t lose sight of what the word problem is asking for or asking you to do. Label the answer with the unit of measurement or with the object the question is requesting.

Step 6 Mentally or on paper check your answer to make sure it is correct and makes sense. Replace the variable in each step with your answer. Calculate the equation with the now known variable to see if it satisfies the equation. If it does, then you’re done!

Practice, Practice, Practice! Mastering word problems requires practice!

References mathwordproblems