Problem Solving Tips

Where to Start

Read the Problem, sometimes you need to read it a couple of times

Write out, Underline or highlight what you know

Draw pictures of what you know, can come before writing it out. Sometimes doodling helps

Write out, Underline or highlight what you what you need to find

Some problems have a formula for solving it, some you have to make up your own, some are not formula based

Once you have an answer, check it. Does it make sense with the problem?

If it does NOT make sense with the problem, repeat any and all steps above

If it DOES make sense with the problem, write out a nice complete answer to the original question

Special Problem Types have their own best methods for solutions.

Linear Equations

Word Problems

Other types of problems, check out the appropriate section. Links to these may be added later.

Check out some of the links on the Math Education Page for addition problem solving tips.