PROBLEM SOLVING

Algebraic Word Problems

Learn the reliable method for algebraic word problems, then apply it to 11+ exam-style questions.

1 · WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The idea

Algebraic word problems translate relationships into expressions or equations.

Picture itPlan, solve, then check
2 · THE METHOD

Follow these steps

  1. Define the unknown with a letter.
  2. Translate every stated relationship in the correct order.
  3. Solve and check the result against the original context.
3 · WORKED EXAMPLES

See the method in action

Example 1

78 counters are shared equally between 3 bags. How many counters go in each bag?

  1. 78 ÷ 3 = 26 counters in each bag.
  2. Substituting the result into the original relationship checks the answer.
Answer: 26
Example 2

A parent is 6 times a child's age plus 6 years. The parent is 48 years old. How old is the child?

  1. Subtract 6, then divide by 6: (48−6)÷6=7.
Answer: 7 years
4 · ELEVENSPRINT TIP

A useful shortcut

Solve and check the result against the original context.

5 · COMMON MISTAKES

Watch out for these

6 · TRY IT YOURSELF

Three fresh questions

Ready to check the method? You will get three fresh, validated questions.