Multi-Step Word Problems with Decimals

A multi-step word problem is a mathematical problem that requires more than one step to solve, often involving multiple operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

Look for numbers, keywords, and phrases that indicate operations (e.g., total, difference, product) to determine what calculations are needed.

The first step is to read the problem carefully and identify what is being asked.

Multiply the number of schools by the number of students each school sends.

Divide the total number of students by the number of students per team.

Multiply the price of each item by the quantity purchased and then add the totals together.

Fixed costs remain constant regardless of the number of items (e.g., rent), while variable costs change with the quantity (e.g., materials).

Calculate the total cost of each meal and then subtract the cost of breakfast from the cost of lunch.

Decimals are important for representing values that are not whole numbers, such as money or measurements.

Multiply the number of hours worked by the hourly wage.