Problem Solving

Mathematics: Problem Solving GCSE

Problem solving

is the process of finding a solution to a question or a situation.

Five Step Process

Step 1: What is Asked?

Step 2: What is Given?

Step 3: Determine the operation to be used

Step 4: Write the number sentence

Step 5: Perform the Operation and Write the Complete Answer

Units

include units in your final answer where applicable (e.g., miles per hour, pounds, etc.).

What is Asked?

The first step is to understand what the problem is asking. This involves identifying the key question or objective that is needed.

What is Given?

The second step is to identify the information provided in the problem.

Determine the operation to be used

The third step is to determine the appropriate mathematical operation(s) required to solve the problem.

Write the number sentence

It involves translating the problem into a mathematical equation or expression.

Number sentence

Is a mathematical equation or expression

Perform the Operation and Write the Complete Answer

This step involves calculating the result and ensuring that the answer is presented in the correct units and context.

Addition

is the process of finding the total or sum by combining two or more numbers.

Subtraction

is the process of finding the difference between two numbers by taking one number away from another.

Multiplication

is the process of finding the total by combining a number a certain number of times.

Division

the process of splitting a number into equal parts or groups.

Exponent

An exponent indicates how many times a number, called the base, is multiplied by itself

Square root

The square root of a number is a value that, when multiplied by itself, gives the original number.

Order of operations

1. Brackets first

2. Indices or exponents

3. Division and Multiplication

4. Addition and Subtraction

Correct mathematical symbols

use the right symbol. (e.g. plus, minus, multiply, divide)

Correct equation

Write down the equation in a clear and organized manner.

Check your equation

to ensure it reflects the problem accurately.

Perform the calculations

carefully perfom either manually or using a calculator.

Double-check

Always double-check your calculations to ensure accuracy.

Complete Answer

Write a clear and complete answer that fully addresses the question.