Working through the Dreaded Word Problem!

• Draw/copy a diagram if a shape, angle or other diagram is mentioned, described or shown
• Find key words and all significant formulas associated with them - usually they are formulas, equations and relationships discussed recently in class
• Write formula down
• Start filling in information given into formulas and/or relationships of equality
• Find the connection between the given information, the concepts and skills learned in the course and the answer being sought
• Solve
• Review question asked to see if solution is the answer or if more steps are needed
• When given a diagram with missing dimension, the majority of the problems will involve finding those missing dimensions, so without worrying too much about getting to the answer quickly, piecing together the dimensions often make way for the answer to become clear.
• Practice and repetition will give any student a greater sense of comfort and confidence when approaching word problems and overcoming the stigma so often attached to them:-)

Visit http://sat.collegeboard.com/practice/sat-practice-questions/math-tips for simple tips to help anyone get started.