Word Problems Key Words

Front

What operation do these words help you solve? (e.g., total, sum, together)

Back

addition

Front

What operation do these words help you solve? (e.g., difference, less, take away)

Back

subtraction

Front

What does 'total' mean in a word problem?

Back

The total is the sum of all parts or amounts.

Front

What does 'difference' mean in a word problem?

Back

The difference is the result of subtracting one number from another.

Front

If you see the word 'together' in a problem, what should you do?

Back

You should add the numbers.

Front

If you see the word 'left' in a problem, what should you do?

Back

You should subtract the numbers.

Front

What does 'more than' indicate in a word problem?

Back

It indicates addition.

Front

What does 'fewer than' indicate in a word problem?

Back

It indicates subtraction.

Front

If a problem says 'how many more', what operation do you use?

Back

You use subtraction.

Front

If a problem says 'how many in total', what operation do you use?

Back

You use addition.