Then translate the sentence into an equation. It may help to first restate the problem in one sentence, with all the important information. Let p= the original price of the shirt.You can use any letter for the variable, but it may help to choose one that helps you remember what it represents. Choose a variable to represent that quantity.

In this problem, the words “what was the original price of the shirt” tell you what you are looking for: the original price of the shirt.It’s hard to find something if you are not sure what it is! Read the problem again and look for words that tell you what you are looking for!

In this problem, do you understand what is being discussed? Do you understand every word?.

If there are words you don’t understand, look them up in a dictionary or on the Internet. You may need to read the problem two or more times. Make sure you understand all the words and ideas. What was the original price of the shirt? Pete bought a shirt on sale for $18, which is one-half the original price. We’ll demonstrate the strategy as we solve the following problem. This strategy will help you become successful with word problems. Now we’ll develop a strategy you can use to solve any word problem. This method works as long as the situation is familiar to you and the math is not too complicated. You had to restate the situation in one sentence, assign a variable, and then write an equation to solve. The word problems applied math to everyday situations. You have also translated word sentences into algebraic equations and solved some word problems. Since then, you’ve increased your math vocabulary as you learned about more algebraic procedures, and you’ve had more practice translating from words into algebra. In earlier chapters, you translated word phrases into algebraic expressions, using some basic mathematical vocabulary and symbols. Even if you have struggled with word problems in the past, you have acquired many new math skills that will help you succeed now! Use a Problem-Solving Strategy for Word Problems Whether it’s driving a car, snowboarding, cooking a gourmet meal, or speaking a new language, you have been able to learn and master a new skill. Think of something that you can do now but couldn’t do three years ago. If we take control and believe we can be successful, we will be able to master word problems. When it comes to word problems, a positive attitude is a big step toward success.

X word problems