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Changing
Words into Math | Setting
Up and Solving Equations |
Summary
In order to be able to solve word problems, you will
first learn how to change "words" into
"math expressions." When you are able to do
that, you can then make equations that allow you to
solve problems.
For example: What is seven decreased by four?
The math expression is: 7 - 4
Then, to form an equation, you could let x
be the
unknown, and write:
7 - 4 = x
And solve the equation: 3 = x
(or x
=
3)
Here's another one: What is 16 increased by 5 times
x
?
The math expression is: 16 +
5x (Here, we can't yet
write an equation, because we need more clues about x).
What is five less than eight?
Let x
be the number we're looking for. Then, x
= 8
- 5
And so x
= 3
What is 14 less than
8 times
x
?
The math expression: 8x - 14
And here are more: What is 7 increased by three times a
number? Let x
be the number. Then the expression is: 3x
+ 7
What is 8 less than a number divided by 7?
Let x
be the number.
Then
 -
8
What is 5 times x plus twice y
?
5x + 2y
What is 11 more than
x
times y
?
xy + 11
Now, let's stop and take
Practice Exercise 12-1, Practice
Exercise 12-1-a.
For additional instructional
material and practice exercises on this subject, go
to:
www.mathgoodies.com/lessons/vol7/equations.html.
Next Page:
Setting up and Solving Equations
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