Although word problems differ from one another, you can use a general strategy to solve them:
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Read the problem carefully, several times if necessary, to familiarize yourself with what is being asked.
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Select a variable or variables to represent the unknown(s) in the problem.
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If possible, draw a diagram to illustrate the facts in a problem or create a chart to organize the given information.
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Translate the problem into an algebraic sentence using the variable(s) chosen.
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Solve the algebraic sentence.
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Check your result.
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Reread the problem; see how the answer to the algebraic sentence can be used to answer the question asked. Check to see whether the answer is reasonable.
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Finally, answer the question.