Solving word problems is a key part of math and science textbooks.

Sometimes students get stuck, panic, or freeze when word problems appear to be difficult. Use the following techniques to avoid that. Experiment with these techniques as you work through textbooks in math and science.

 

1. Practice

   Work lots of problems. Do assigned problems and more. Make up you own. Work with a classmate and make up problems for each other to solve. The more problems you do, the more comfortable you’re likely to feel solving new ones.

2. Divide problems by type
   

   Make a list of the different kinds of problems and note the elements of each. By dividing problems into type or category, you can isolate the kinds of problems that are difficult for you. Practice those frequently and get help if you need it.

3. Know your terminology
   

   To ensure that you understand the terminology, see if you can restate the problem in your own words. Translate equations into English sentences. Use 3x5 flashcards to study special terms.

4. Understand formulas
   

   If you understand the basic concepts behind the formulas, it is easier to recall them accurately.  More importantly, you will probably be able to recreate the formulas if your recall falters. Understanding is always preferable to memorization.

5. Use summary sheets
   

   Groups of terms and formulas can be easier to memorize if you list them on a sheet of paper or put them on 3x5 cards. Mind map summary sheets allow you to see how various kinds of problems relate to one another.

6. Play with possibilities
   

   There’s usually not one "right" way to solve a problem. Several approaches or formulas may work, though one may be more efficient than another. Be willing to think about the problem from several angles or proceed by trial and error.

7. When practicing, time yourself
   

   Sometimes speed counts. Notice how fast you can work problems. This gives you an idea of how much time to allot for different types of problems.

solving a specific problem

    

• Read the problem at least twice before you begin. Read slowly. Be certain you understand what is being asked.
• Survey the problem for all of the givens. Determine the principles and relationships involved. Look for what is to be proven or what is to be discovered. Write these down.
• Before you begin to compute, determine the strategy you will use to arrive at the solution.
• When solving equations, carry out the algebra as far as you can before plugging in the actual numbers. 
• Take shortcuts. For example, if the same term appears in both dividend and divisor, they will cancel each other out.
• Draw a picture or make a diagram. Pictures help keep the facts straight. They show relationships more effectively than words.
• Record your facts in tables. Consider using three columns titled "what I already know," "what I want to find out," and "what relates the two." This last column is the place to record a formula that can help you solve the problem.
• Read the problem aloud.  Sometimes the sound of your voice will jar loose the solution to a problem. Talk yourself through the solution.
• Check  your results.  Work problems backwards, then forwards. Start at both ends and work towards the middle to check your work.
• Take a minute to make sure you kept the units of measurement clear. For example, if you’re measuring distance in meters and time in seconds, then the final velocity should be in meters per second.
• Another way to check your work is to estimate the answer before you compute it. Check to see if the answer you actually got seems in the ballpark.
• Savor the successful solution.   When working on a particularly difficult problem, take encouragement from previous success.