The reason we learn mathematics is we can solve problems, not just
move numbers and letters around in an equation. But most real world
problems are stated using verbal communication, so what we need to
be able to do is translate words into mathematical statements.
Here is a general outline of how you can tackle word problems:
- Read the problem carefully, try to get a feel for the
whole problem, and see what information you have and what
information you need. You should write down the questions you
are being asked to solve. Figure out what information you were
given in the problem and what information you need to know in
order to answer the question.
- Next work in an organized manor. Label all your
variables, draw and label any pictures or graphs and explain
your reasoning as you go along.
- The third step is to look for key words. Certain
words will indicate certain mathematical operations. For example
increased by, more than and added to all imply you will need to
do some sort of addition, where as out of, percent or ratio
imply you will need to do division.
- Next you will form an equation and solve the equation.
In this case you could form an equation based on the problem or
apply an equation you already know.
- Lastly you should check your answer and write a sentence
with your answer (remember to include your units).
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