Tips for Problem Solving (Factor Label Method)

Tips for Problem Solving

By Katie Abbagnaro

Step 1

​State the given and needed units

What is 644 kg in lb?
Your "given" is 644 kg

Step 2

​Write a unit plan to convert the given unit to final (needed) unit

In the problem, what is 644 kg in lb,
Your unit plan would be kg -> g -> ounces -> pounds

These can also be written as fractions:

Your equalities will be:
10^-3kg = 1g, 28.4g = 1oz, 16oz = 1lb

​State the equalities and conversion factors to cancel units

Step 3

Step 4

Set up problem to cancel units and calculate answer

You will start to realize once you've set up your equalities as fractions, that you've essentially set up the problem.
Start with your given and use the equalities to set up your equation.

Final Equation

Open Ended

What is the result? (remember sig figs)