Multi-step word problems

Key notes :

  1. Definition:
    • Multi-step word problems require solving more than one mathematical operation to find the solution. They often involve addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.
  2. Importance:
    • These problems help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They also apply math to real-life situations.

Learn with an example

✈️ For a school fundraiser, Kelsey needs to sell 68 boxes of biscuits. So far, she has sold 11 boxes of lemon biscuits to her aunt, 8 boxes of chocolate biscuits to her mother, and 3 boxes of oatmeal biscuits to a neighbor.

How many more boxes of biscuits does Kelsey need to sell?

______ boxes of biscuits

  • Step 1: Find the number of boxes already sold.
  • 11 + 8 + 3 = 22
  • Step 2: Find how many more boxes should be sold.
  • 68 − 22 = 46
  • Kelsey needs to sell 46 more boxes of biscuits.

✈️ Carla saved ₹1,845 in June, ₹885 in July, and ₹817 in August. Then Carla spent ₹653 on school supplies and ₹2,743 on new clothes.

How much money does Carla have left?

₹________

  • Step 1: Find the total amount of money saved.
  • ₹1,845 + ₹885 + ₹817 = ₹3,547
  • Step 2: Find the total amount spent on school supplies and new clothes.
  • ₹653 + ₹2,743 = ₹3,396
  • Step 3: Find the amount of money left.
  • ₹3,547 − ₹3,396 = ₹151
  • Carla has ₹151 left.

✈️ There are 18 bicycles and 22 cars in the garage at Eva’s flat building.

How many wheels are there in the garage?

_______wheels

  • Step 1: Find the number of bicycle wheels.
  • 2 × 18 = 36
  • Step 2: Find the number of car wheels.
  • 4 × 22 = 88
  • Step 3: Find the total number of wheels.
  • 36 + 88 = 124
  • There are 124 wheels in the garage.

Let’s practice!🖊️