Concept

Multi-step word problems will require more than one math operation in order to figure out the answer.

In an algebra equation, there are numbers, variables (letters) that represent unknown numbers, operation signs (+ − × ÷) and an equal’s sign.

Rule

When solving a multi-step word problem,

1. Determine what the question is asking.
2. Make a list of the information the word problem gives.

Write the math operations that need to be completed, step by step, in order to figure out the answer to the question.

When solving an algebra equation,
1. Write the equation.
2. Decide whether to use addition or subtraction to isolate the variable term.  
3. Add or subtract the constant on both sides of the equation.  
4. Eliminate the coefficient of the variable through division or multiplication.  
5. Solve for the variable.

Example

Sarah has three times more dollars than Eric. Eric has 10 dollars less than Jim. Jim has 70 dollars. How much money does Sarah have?

Solution

1. Determine what the question is asking.

For this word problem, the question is asking how much money Sarah has. 

2. Make a list of the information the word problem gives.

Let Sarah = S, Eric = E, and Jim = J.

S = 3 x E

E = J - 10

J = 70

3. Write the math operations that need to be completed, step by step, in order to figure out the answer to the question.

Working backwards, if J = 70, then E = 70 - 10.

E = 60

If E =60, then S = 3 x 60.

S = 180

Sarah has 180 dollars.

Pre-requisite Skills

Multiply by 1 Digit Number (5.4.4)

Multiply by 2 digit Number (5.4.5)