Multi-Step Word Problems

Grade 6 Medium Problem Solving & Reasoning Skills

Learning Objectives

  • Break down word problems into smaller parts
  • Use multiple operations in a single problem

Concept Explanation

Multi-step word problems require students to analyze and combine more than one operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division) or concept (like fractions or geometry). By reading the problem carefully, identifying what’s being asked, and planning a strategy, students cultivate logical thinking and problem-solving resilience.

Worked Examples

Example 1

Problem: You have 12 cookies. You give away 4. Then a friend gives you 3 more. How many cookies do you have now?
Solution: 11
Explanation: (12 − 4) + 3 = 8 + 3 = 11.

Example 2

Problem: A box of chocolates has 24 pieces. If 6 friends share them equally, how many chocolates does each friend get? Then, how many are left if 2 pieces fall on the floor?
Solution: 4 each, 22 left total
Explanation: 24 ÷ 6 = 4 per friend. After 2 fall, 24 − 2 = 22 remain.

Example 3

Problem: If one book costs 5,howmuchdo3bookscostwitha2−dollardiscountintotal?∗∗Solution:∗∗5, how much do 3 books cost with a 2-dollar discount in total? **Solution:**13
Explanation: 3 books = 15,minusdiscount15, minus discount2 = $13.

Common Errors

ErrorCorrectionReason
Not reading the entire problem carefullyIdentify all steps before solvingMissing a second or third step leads to partial answers.
Using the wrong operationAnalyze each step’s requirementSome steps might need addition, others need multiplication, etc.
Forgetting leftover or remaining quantitiesCheck if you must subtract out extras or freebiesWord problems often have an “extra detail” that changes the final total.

Practice Problems

  1. Problem: You have 10 crayons. You lose 2, then buy 6 more. How many do you have?
    Solution: (10 - 2) + 6 = 14
  2. Problem: A recipe calls for 4 cups of flour. You have only 2 cups. How many more do you need?
    Solution: 2 cups
  3. Problem: A pizza is cut into 8 slices. You eat 2, and your friend eats 3. How many slices remain?
    Solution: 3 slices
  4. Problem: You run 3 laps on Monday, 4 laps on Tuesday, and 5 laps on Wednesday. How many laps total?
    Solution: 12 laps
  5. Problem: A box has 18 candies. If 9 are red and the rest are blue, how many are blue?
    Solution: 9 blue (18 - 9 = 9)

Real-World Application Example

Planning a birthday party often involves multi-step math: budgeting for supplies, counting invitations, estimating snacks and drinks, and adjusting as more guests respond. Each step can involve different operations and decisions.

Related Concepts