Multi-Step Word Problems

A multi-step word problem hides two or more math operations inside a real-life story. To solve one, slow down. The numbers in the problem are not always meant to be used in the order they appear — your job is to figure out which operations are needed, the right order to do them in, and whether the answer makes sense once you finish.

The Four-Step Strategy

1. READ — Read the whole problem carefully. Underline what is being asked. Re-read if you have to.
2. LIST — Write down every number, unit, and fact you are given. Cross out anything that is not needed.
3. PLAN — Decide which operations to use (+ - x ÷) and the order to do them in. Order of operations from L07 still applies inside word problems.
4. SOLVE & CHECK — Carry out the operations carefully. Then check: is the answer reasonable? Estimate or use an inverse operation to verify.

Worked Example

Maya has $50. She buys 3 books at $8 each and a magazine for $5. How much money does she have left?

1. READ: How much money does Maya have left?
2. LIST: starts with $50; 3 books at $8 each; magazine $5.
3. PLAN: multiply first to find book cost (3 x 8 = 24), then add the magazine (24 + 5 = 29), then subtract from 50. Symbolically: 50 - (3 x 8 + 5).
4. SOLVE: 3 x 8 = 24, then 24 + 5 = 29, then 50 - 29 = 21.
5. CHECK: 21 + 29 = 50, and $21 is a reasonable amount of change. Final answer: $21 left.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do NOT just add every number you see. Decide which operation each number needs.
• Watch the order — multiplying or dividing usually happens before adding or subtracting (PEMDAS still rules).
• Pay attention to "left", "in all", "each", "shared equally" — they signal different operations.
• Always include the unit in your final answer ($, km, minutes, people).