🔍 Calling all Math Detectives!
To solve any mystery, you need to know the secret "code words" that tell you which math tool to use. Here is your ultimate cheat sheet of keywords, organized by the type of operation they signal.
The Addition Code
Joining Groups
When you see these words, it usually means you need to put numbers together to find a bigger total.
Example: "Sarah has 5 apples. Her friend gives her 3 more. How many does she have in all?"
→ 5 + 3 = 8
The Subtraction Code
Taking Away
Look for these clues when something is being removed or you need to find the difference between two things.
Note: "Shared" can also be a division clue depending on context!
Example: "There were 12 cookies. Tom ate 4. How many are left over?"
→ 12 - 4 = 8
The Multiplication Code
Fast Adding
These words are shortcuts that tell you to add the same number many times.
Note: "Double" means adding the same number together OR multiplying by 2!
Example: "There are 4 boxes. Each box has 6 pencils. How many pencils in total?"
→ 4 × 6 = 24
The Division Code
Splitting Up
Use these clues when you need to break a large group into smaller, equal parts.
Note: "Each" and "Share" can appear in both multiplication AND division problems. Context matters!
Example: "18 cookies are shared equally among 3 friends. How many does each person get?"
→ 18 ÷ 3 = 6
🍕 Detective Note on Fractions
While "half" is often a division clue, fraction keywords include:
💡 Pro-Tip for Super Detectives!
Sometimes a mystery is extra tricky and uses more than one operation! Always reread the problem to see if you need to use two different math tools to find the final answer.
Multi-Step Example: "Maria bought 3 packs of stickers with 8 stickers each. She gave 5 away. How many does she have left?"
→ Step 1 (Multiply): 3 × 8 = 24
→ Step 2 (Subtract): 24 - 5 = 19