One-Step Equation Word Problems

Word problems can sometimes seem tricky, but they are just real-world puzzles waiting to be turned into math! A one-step equation word problem is a scenario that can be translated into a simple equation and solved in just a single step.

Translating Words into Math

The secret to solving these problems is finding the "clue words" that tell you which operation to use.

• Addition ($+$): sum, increased by, total, more than, plus.
• Subtraction ($-$): difference, decreased by, fewer than, less than, minus.
• Multiplication ($\times$): product, times, twice, double, of.
• Division ($\div$): quotient, divided by, half, shared equally.

Always start by defining your unknown. Choose a variable (like $x$, $y$, or $n$) to represent the number you are trying to find.

Step-by-Step Examples

Example 1: Addition

Problem: A number plus $15$ equals $42$. What is the number?

1. Identify the unknown: Let $n$ be the unknown number.
2. Write the equation: "A number plus 15" translates to $n + 15$. "Equals 42" means $= 42$. $n + 15 = 42$
3. Solve in one step: Subtract $15$ from both sides. $n = 42 - 15$ $n = 27$ The number is $27$.

Example 2: Multiplication

Problem: Tom has $3$ times as many cards as Sam. Tom has $27$ cards. How many does Sam have?

1. Identify the unknown: Let $c$ be the number of cards Sam has.
2. Write the equation: "3 times as many cards as Sam" translates to $3c$. We know this total is $27$. $3c = 27$
3. Solve in one step: Divide both sides by $3$. $c = \frac{27}{3}$ $c = 9$ Sam has $9$ cards.

Quick Tips for Success

• Read the problem carefully and underline the numbers and clue words.
• Don't forget to define what your variable stands for before writing the equation.
• Always check your answer by plugging it back into the original word problem to see if it makes sense!