Generally, it’s the translation from English into algebra that poses the problem. Instead of getting stuck, consider taking “hybrid notes,” written partly in English and partly in math, at least initially. Once you gain more clarity, you can shift completely into algebraic sentences (i.e. equations).
Do translation in stages, in baby-steps, rather than a single leap. First write notes that mix English and math (e.g. Expense = Burgers * Price, or Total Time = Time Running + Time Walking), then translate fully into mathematics as you gain more understanding.
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Example
You own a boat rental business. Boats rent for $100 per hour plus a $150 security deposit. On average, your expenses amount to 30% of the hourly fee for each rental. Write an equation relating profit and rental hours for a typical boat trip.
It’s hard to translate that into algebra in a single step. Using hybrid notes will help.
Profit = Revenue – Expenses.
Revenue: 100*hours+150
Expenses: .3*(hourly fee)
Hours: h
Hourly fee: 100h
Profit = (100h+150)–.3(100h) = 100h+150–30h = 70h+150
Answer: P = 70h+150
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If you’re dealing with a particularly puzzling word problem, don’t let yourself get tripped up over language. Direct translation from English to math may be too much to ask.
Instead, use hybrid notes to get things going.
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Copyright © 2006-present: Christopher R. Borland. All rights reserved.
