GENERAL PROCEDURE IN THE SOLUTION OF WORD PROBLEMS

Step 1: Construct Algebraic Formulae

Step 2: Formulate Algebraic Equation(s)

Step 3: Solve the Algebraic Equation

EXAMPLE

Some birds were flying and met a bird on their way. The bird greeted them; hello hundred!

They said we are not hundred; we need half of us plus you to make us hundred. How many

birds were flying?

SOLUTION

Step 1: Construct Algebraic Formulae

Let the number of birds be x

Then half the number of birds will be

Step 2: Formulate Algebraic Equation(s)

Step 3: Solve the Algebraic Equation

2x + x + 2 = 200 (Multiply both sides by 2)

2x + x = 200 – 2 (Transfer numerals to RHS)

3x = 198 Collect like terms)

x = 66 (Divide throughout by 3)

Therefore, the correct answer is C