Drill-type problems require a working knowledge of the methods presented, and some algebraic steps to change the algebraic form may be required to complete the solution. Word problems, however, require a proper interpretation of the statement of the problem before they can be put in a form for solution.

We have to put word problems in symbolic form in order to solve them, and it is this procedure that most students find difficult. Because such problems require more than going through a certain routine, they demand more analysis and appear to be more difficult. Among the reasons for the student’s difficulty at solving word problems are (1) unsuccessful previous attempts at solving word problems, leading the student to believe that all word problems are “impossible,” (2) a poorly organized approach to the solution, and (3) failure to read the problem carefully, thereby having an improper and incomplete interpretation of the statement given. These can be overcome with proper attitude and care.

[A specific procedure for solving word problems is shown on page 46, when word problems are first covered in our study of algebra.] There are over 120 completely worked examples of word problems (as well as numerous other examples that show a similar analysis) throughout this text, illustrating proper interpretations and approaches to these problems.