Ctrl+k

Break a multi-step problem into parts

A multi-step problem is understood as a connected set of simpler mathematical questions: quantities and conditions are identified, relevant information is separated from irrelevant detail, and an intermediate result from one part supplies a quantity for the next. This structure may be represented with an equation chain, table, diagram, or bar model, using whole numbers, decimals, fractions, ratios, rates, or percentages while tracking units and interpreting whether the final result answers the original question. The scope excludes formal systems of equations, multivariable modeling, and highly abstract problem decomposition.

Detailed Explanation: Break a multi-step problem into parts

A multi-step problem is easier when you turn it into a chain of smaller questions.

  1. Read the problem and identify what it asks you to find.
  2. Separate useful information from extra details.
  3. Solve the first smaller question.
  4. Use that answer in the next question.
  5. Check that the final answer has the correct units and answers the original question.

Example

A school buys 44 packs of notebooks. Each pack has (18)(18) notebooks. The school gives (27)(27) notebooks to teachers and shares the rest equally among 33 classes. The notebooks have blue covers. How many notebooks does each class receive?

The color of the covers is not needed, so ignore it.

Step 1: Find the total number of notebooks.

There are 44 packs with (18)(18) notebooks in each pack:

4×18=724 \times 18 = 72

So, the school has (72)(72) notebooks.

Step 2: Find how many notebooks are left.

The school gives away (27)(27) notebooks:

72−27=4572 - 27 = 45

Now (45)(45) notebooks are left.

Step 3: Share the notebooks among the classes.

There are 33 classes:

45÷3=1545 \div 3 = 15

Each class receives 15 notebooks\boxed{15\text{ notebooks}}.

The equation chain is:

4×18=72⟶72−27=45⟶45÷3=154 \times 18 = 72 \quad\longrightarrow\quad 72 - 27 = 45 \quad\longrightarrow\quad 45 \div 3 = 15

Notice that each answer supplies the number needed for the next step. Finally, check the units: the question asks for notebooks per class, so the answer is (15)(15) notebooks for each class.

Learn by doing: Break a multi-step problem into parts

Click a topic below to practice the foundational skills you'll need, learn the steps, or master this skill

    Practice with unlimited practice problems

    Multiplication and Division Word Problems (Small Integers)

      ?