Math word problems can sometimes feel like little puzzles wrapped in sentences! Especially when they ask you to do more than just one thing to find the answer. Don’t worry, though! They might seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you can totally become a 2 step math word problems solving pro.
Think of these problems as mini-adventures where you need to uncover a secret message. Instead of finding buried treasure, you’re finding a number. Once you learn how to break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces, you’ll be acing those word problems in no time!
Conquering 2 Step Math Word Problems
The key to tackling 2 step math word problems is to read carefully. Highlight or underline the important information and numbers. Figure out what the problem is asking you to find. Visualizing the problem can be helpful. Draw a picture or diagram to represent the situation.
Next, break the problem down into two separate steps. Identify the first calculation you need to perform. Will you add, subtract, multiply, or divide? Do the first step and write down your answer. This answer will be used for your next calculation for the second step.
For example, lets say: “Sarah has 12 cookies. She eats 3 and then shares the rest equally with her 3 friends. How many cookies does each friend get?” First, subtract the cookies Sarah eats (12 – 3 = 9). Then, divide the remaining cookies by the number of friends (9 / 3 = 3 cookies each).
Always double-check your work! Make sure your answer makes sense in the context of the problem. Does it logically fit with what the question is asking? If you get an answer that seems way too big or small, go back and review each step to make sure you didn’t make an error.
Practice makes perfect! The more 2 step math word problems you solve, the easier it will become. Look for online resources, worksheets, or ask your teacher or parents for extra practice problems. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck!
Remember, 2 step math word problems aren’t scary monsters, they are just puzzles waiting to be solved. Breaking them down into smaller steps, visualizing the situation, and practicing regularly will make you a word problem wizard in no time. So, go out there and conquer those problems with confidence!