Year 9: Solve word equations

This cheat sheet will help you solve word equations in Year 9 Algebra.

1. Understand the Question

Carefully read the entire word equation. Identify the unknown variable and what you need to find.

2. Translate into Algebraic Equations

This is the most crucial step! Here’s how to translate common phrases:

• “a number” or “an unknown number” = x
• “twice a number” = 2x
• “three times a number” = 3x
• “half a number” = x/2
• “one less than a number” = x - 1
• “two more than a number” = x + 2

3. Solve the Equation

Now that you’ve translated the word equation into an algebraic equation, use your standard algebraic skills to solve for the unknown variable (x).

4. Check Your Answer

Substitute your answer back into the original word equation. Does it make sense? This is your final check.

Example:

“The sum of a number and five is twelve.”

1. x + 5 = 12
2. x = 12 - 5
3. x = 7

Therefore, the answer is 7.