How Do You Solve a Word Problem Using a Multi-Step Equation?

How Do You Solve a Word Problem Using a Multi-Step Equation?

Note:

Working with word problems AND fractions? This tutorial shows you how to take a word problem and translate it into a mathematical equation involving fractions. Then, you'll see how to solve and check your answer. Take a look!

Keywords:

  • problem
  • word problem
  • word
  • translate words to algebra
  • equation
  • solve
  • fractions
  • variable on 1 side
  • 1 variable equation
  • parentheses
  • distributive property
  • multi-step solution
  • solve using division
  • like terms
  • combine like terms
  • simplify
  • order of operations in reverse
  • order of operations

Background Tutorials

  • Evaluate expressions at specific values of their variables. Include expressions that arise from formulas used in real-world problems. Perform arithmetic operations, including those involving whole-number exponents, in the conventional order when there are no parentheses to specify a particular order (Order of Operations).

      • How Do You Evaluate an Algebraic Expression?How Do You Evaluate an Algebraic Expression?

      How Do You Evaluate an Algebraic Expression?

      Plugging variables into an expression is essential for solving many algebra problems. See how to plug in variable values by watching this tutorial.

      • What is a Variable?What is a Variable?

      What is a Variable?

      You can't do algebra without working with variables, but variables can be confusing. If you've ever wondered what variables are, then this tutorial is for you!

      • What's the Order of Operations?What's the Order of Operations?

      What's the Order of Operations?

      Check out this tutorial where you'll see exactly what order you need to follow when you simplify expressions. You'll also see what happens when you don't follow these rules, and you'll find out why order of operations is so important!

  • Solve real-world and mathematical problems by writing and solving equations of the form x + p = q and px = q for cases in which p, q and x are all nonnegative rational numbers.

  • Give examples of linear equations in one variable with one solution, infinitely many solutions, or no solutions. Show which of these possibilities is the case by successively transforming the given equation into simpler forms, until an equivalent equation of the form x = a, a = a, or a = b results (where a and b are different numbers).

Further Exploration

  • Solve multi-step real-life and mathematical problems posed with positive and negative rational numbers in any form (whole numbers, fractions, and decimals), using tools strategically. Apply properties of operations to calculate with numbers in any form; convert between forms as appropriate; and assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation strategies.