Solving Technique

There are many types of word problems involving arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and combinations of them with various twists. It is most important to have a systematic technique for solving word problems. Here is such a technique.

  1. First, identify what is being asked. What are you ultimately trying to find? How far a car has traveled? How fast a plane flies? How many items can be purchased? Whatever it is, find it and then circle it. This helps ensure that you are solving for what is being asked.




  5. Carefully solve the equation or work the necessary computation. Be sure you are working in the same units (for example, you may have to change feet into inches, pounds into ounces, and so forth, in order to keep everything consistent).

  6. Did you answer the question? One of the most common errors in answering word problems is the failure to answer what was actually being asked.
