STEPS TO SOLVE WORD PROBLEMS 

For a typical word problem try the following steps:

1. READ the problem until you UNDERSTAND the Problem and Question.
2. Declare Variable(s) – one variable for each unknown (Question.)
3. Draw a picture/write down any relating facts/formulas.
4. Write an EQUTION(s) modeling the problem.
5. Solve the equation(s) for the unknown variable(s). Write your answer as a statement/sentence in english. Include units.
6. Check your answer.(s) Two types of checks. (a) Logical (b) Arithmetic

Example  

In a triangle, one side is 5 less than a second side and 10 less than a third side. If the perimeter of the triangle is 75, find the measures of the three sides.

 By Lou Ramos