How to Solve Multi-Step Word Problems

Sometimes, one math step just isn't enough to find the answer! A multi-step word problem is a math puzzle that takes two or more steps to solve. You might need to use a mix of addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division to get to the final answer.

The trick is to figure out the right order of steps and use the answer from your first step to help solve the next one.

The Step-by-Step Strategy

To solve these problems, act like a math detective:

1. Find the hidden question: What do you need to figure out first before you can find the final answer?
2. Make a plan: Decide which math operations ($+$, $-$, $\times$, $\div$) to use for each step.
3. Solve one step at a time: Don't rush! Find the first answer, then use it in the next part of the problem.

Example 1: The Sticker Problem

Problem: Mom bought 3 packs of 8 stickers and gave away 5. How many are left?

Step 1: First, find out how many stickers Mom bought in total (the hidden question).

• She bought 3 packs, and each pack has 8 stickers.
• $3 \times 8 = 24$ stickers.

Step 2: Next, find out how many are left after she gave some away.

• We take the total from Step 1 and subtract the 5 she gave away.
• $24 - 5 = 19$ stickers.

Answer: There are $19$ stickers left.

Example 2: The Apple Store

Problem: A store has 45 apples. 12 are sold and 3 boxes of 6 arrive. How many apples are there now?

Step 1: Find out how many apples are left after some are sold.

• Start with 45 and subtract the 12 that were sold.
• $45 - 12 = 33$ apples.

Step 2: Figure out how many new apples arrived.

• There are 3 boxes, and each box has 6 apples.
• $3 \times 6 = 18$ new apples.

Step 3: Add the new apples to the apples the store already had.

• Take the 33 apples from Step 1 and add the 18 new apples from Step 2.
• $33 + 18 = 51$ apples.

Answer: The store now has $51$ apples.

Quick Tips for Success

• Underline important numbers and circle action words (like "gave away" for subtraction, or "packs of" for multiplication).
• Draw a picture if you feel stuck. It helps you see what is happening in the story.
• Check your work: Does your final answer make sense with the story?