Read the problem carefully. Most math problems that are answered incorrectly are done so because of errors in the interpretation of the word problem. Look for clue words that tell you exactly what the problem is asking for. The words sum, total and combination indicate that the problem will require addition, while the words difference or remainder will indicate that subtraction will be required.
Write down all important information. List any quantities or numerical information that is listed. For a problem such as "Tom was given a check for $836.46. He has to give his helpers Carrie and Billy each $147.54. How much money remains after he pays his helpers?" the numbers $836.46, $147.54 and $147.54 would be listed. The $147.54 is listed twice because of Tom's two helpers. The clue words in this equation are "remains, each" and "give".
Determine the required operations. In Tom's example both subtraction and addition are required. Tom has to give away two quantities of $147.54 because of the word "each." These two amounts must be added together. Because he gives this total away, the amount must be subtracted from the total of $836.46 Arrange these into numerical problems by writing the number information out ($147.54 + $147.54), with the second quantity directly below the first. Line up the decimal points. Draw a line beneath the problem. Include the operation symbol at the left of the problem (+ or -). Place a third decimal point directly below the other two. This is the total's decimal point.
Work the problem, either subtracting or adding as required. In Tom's example, the $147.54 is added together twice to get $295.08, then this amount is subtracted from the $836.46. The total money Tom received -- $836.46 -- is listed first in a subtraction problem, with the $295.08 listed directly below it with the decimal points lined up. Draw a line beneath the bottom number, and line up a third decimal point with the two above the equal line. Write the answer to the problem -- $541.38 -- below this line.
Check the results by performing the reverse operation. In Tom's example, take the $541.38 and add the $295.08 by writing out the numbers, one on top of the other and lining up the decimals. Draw the equal bar beneath it and line up the third decimal point. Add the numbers together to get the original $836.46. This check can be done to confirm your answers for all math problems.