Solving word problems in math can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be broken down into manageable steps. The key is to understand what the problem is asking, identify the important information, and then use that information to find the solution. Let’s dive in and learn the step-by-step process to tackle these tricky problems.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Solve Word Problems
Word problems require a bit more reading and understanding than your typical equation. The steps we’re about to go through will help you dissect the problem and find a path to the solution.
Step 1: Read the Problem Carefully
Take your time to read through the word problem several times.
When you first encounter a word problem, resist the urge to jump straight into solving it. Read it carefully, more than once if needed, to fully understand the scenario it presents. Often, problems will include irrelevant information to throw you off, so it’s important to identify what’s necessary and what’s not.
Step 2: Identify What the Problem is Asking
Find the question or the statement that specifies what you need to determine.
Once you know what you’re dealing with, pinpoint the actual question. What is the problem asking you to find? Is it asking for a total, a difference, or perhaps a ratio? Identifying the question is a crucial step in knowing which direction your solution should head.
Step 3: Highlight Key Information and Terms
Underline or highlight important numbers, keywords, and phrases.
In every word problem, there are clues that will guide you to the solution. Look for numbers, specific terms like ‘total’, ‘per’, ‘increase’, ‘decrease’, and any other information that seems vital to solving the problem.
Step 4: Translate the Words into a Mathematical Equation
Convert the problem into an equation using the highlighted information.
This is where your understanding of math vocabulary will come into play. Terms like "sum" or "product" will help you decide whether to add or multiply. Take the information you’ve identified and start forming an equation that you can solve.
Step 5: Solve the Equation
Use the appropriate mathematical operations to solve the equation.
Once your equation is set up, it’s time to do the math. Depending on the operation required (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), work through the problem methodically. Don’t forget to check your work as you go.
Step 6: Check Your Work
Review your solution in the context of the word problem.
After solving the equation, revisit the original word problem. Does your answer make sense in the context of the scenario provided? If something seems off, go through the steps again to see where you may have made a mistake.
Once you’ve solved the word problem, you should have a clear answer to the question it posed. The satisfaction of unraveling a math puzzle is quite rewarding, and with practice, it becomes easier and quicker.
Tips for Solving Word Problems
- Always read the problem more than once before attempting to solve it.
- Don’t rush. Take your time to understand what is being asked.
- Use a highlighter or pen to mark important information.
- Practice converting words into mathematical operations.
- Double-check your solution by plugging it back into the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the word problem has too much information?
Focus on the information that directly relates to the question being asked. Not all details in a word problem are necessary for finding the solution.
How do I know which mathematical operation to use?
Pay attention to keywords in the problem. Words like "total" or "combined" suggest addition, while "difference" points to subtraction.
Can I guess the answer to a word problem?
Guessing is not a reliable method. Always work through the problem methodically to find the correct answer.
Are there any tricks to solving word problems faster?
With practice, you’ll start to recognize patterns and become faster at identifying the necessary information and operations.
What should I do if I keep getting the wrong answer?
Go back through each step to see where you might have made a mistake. Sometimes a fresh perspective or a break can help you see the problem differently.
Summary
- Read the problem carefully.
- Identify what the problem is asking.
- Highlight key information and terms.
- Translate words into a mathematical equation.
- Solve the equation.
- Check your work.
Conclusion
Mastering word problems is a skill that requires patience, practice, and a methodical approach. By breaking down the problem step-by-step, you’ll find that even the most complex problems can be solved. Remember, the key is to understand what you’re being asked, identify the essential information, and convert that into an equation that can be solved. Keep practicing, and soon enough, you’ll be solving word problems with ease. Don’t forget to use these steps the next time you’re faced with a word problem, and watch how quickly you’ll reach a solution.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.