Steps to Solving Math Word Problems

Step 1: Understand
 Read the problem two times
 Ask yourself, “What is the question asking?”

Step 2: Plan
 Circle the numbers or number words
 Circle the operation words
 Cross out the distracters
 Write a number model

Step 3: Solve It
 Work through the number model
 Check your answer (reverse operation)

Step 4: Look Back

 Read the question with your answer
 Ask yourself, “Does my answer make sense?”