Solving
Mathematics
word problems
There are two steps for
solving mathematics word
problems:
Step-1:
•Translate the wording into
a numeric equation that
combines smaller
"expressions“.
Step-2:
•Solve the equation.
Suggestions:
Step-1
•Read the problem entirely
Try to comprehend again and
again till you feel the whole.
Suggestions:
Step-2
•List information and the
variables you identify
For example
units of measure to the
variables (liters, kilometers,
centimeters.)
Suggestions:
Step-3
•Define what answer
you need
Suggestions:
Step-4
•Work in an organized
manner.
Suggestions:
Step-4
•organising will help you
think clearly
Suggestions:
Step-4
•Draw and label all graphs and
pictures clearly
Suggestions:
Step-4
• Note or explain each step of
your process.
Suggestions:
Step-4
•Small notes will help you track
variables and remember their
meanings
Suggestions:
Step-5
•Look for the "key"
words .
•Certain words indicate
certain Mathematical
operations:
Learn “Key
words” for
different
operations.
Addition: Key words +
• increased by
•more than
•combined together
•total of
•Sum of
•added to
Addition:
Key word “increased by”
x is increased by 8
x + 8
addition:
Key word “more than”
•x more than 5
x + 5
•7 more than x
7 + x
addition: Key word
“combined together”
•x and y combined together
x + y
• x and 8 are put together
x + 8
•total of x and y
x + y
•Total of 8 and y
8 + y
Addition: Key word
“a total of ’
•Sum of x and y
x + y
•Sum of 5 and a number
5 + x
Addition:Key word
“Sum of”
• y added to x
x + y
• 10 added to a number
x + 10
Addition: Key word
“added to”
It continues…

Solving addition word problem knowing key words