what are the basic steps involved in problem-solving and what is the importance of following these problem solving steps when presented with a problem?
This depends on the problem. But for most problems, it is simple: -identify what you are solving for before you jump into the equation(!*especially if there is more than one variable) -set up an equation (if it’s not set up already) -isolate the variable For word problems: -express everything unknown in terms of a variable (or two or three, if necessary) -set up an equation according to the information given in the problem For some, like fractions, you have to: -find the common denominator -add or subtract as indicated -factor(if possible) -cancel (if possible) For others, like quadratic, you have to: -factor -set equal to zero -solve for variable For some, like lines/inequalities, you have to: -isolate y -plug in coordinates(if possible) or -graph (if already solved) including any shading The steps you take don’t ALWAYS have to be in the order that I presented them. As long as you don’t LEAVE OUT any steps (doing them in your head is okay, that’s not the same as leaving them out).
