Word problems
Sometimes math is not just numbers — it comes wrapped in a little story. Those stories are called word problems. Don't worry, they are not tricky once you know how to read them.
What is a word problem
A word problem is a tiny tale with numbers in it. At the end, the story asks you a question. Like this:
Anna had 7 stickers. Her dad gave her 5 more. How many stickers does Anna have now?
The story tells you what is happening. The question — "how many?" — is the part you have to answer.
Three steps that always work
- Read the whole story slowly. Picture it in your head.
- Find the numbers and the action. Did things get added or taken away?
- Calculate the answer and write it down with the right unit.
For Anna's stickers:
7 + 5 = 12. Anna has 12 stickers.
That is all. Not so bad, right?
What you will learn here
- How to read a problem — what to look for in the story
- Addition word problems — when things get put together
- Subtraction word problems — when things go away
- For parents — tips for grown-ups
When you are ready, come back here and try a few problems on your own.