Explaining Word Based Problems Using Symbols in One-Step Algebra: Worked Example
22 October 2026
Many children find it tricky to turn word problems into algebra. Using symbols can help make these questions much clearer. Here is a simple example to show your child how to set up and solve a one-step algebra word problem using symbols.
Worked example
Sam has x apples. He gets 7 more apples. Now he has 12 apples. How many apples did Sam have at the start?
Write the problem with symbols: x + 7 = 12
Take away 7 from both sides: x + 7 - 7 = 12 - 7
Work out the answer: x = 5
The correct answer is 5.
Key insight: Once your child sees how to use symbols for a word problem, they can spot the same pattern in other questions. With practice, your child will feel more confident solving similar one-step algebra problems on their own.
