How do I solve word problem

Question

A positive number is 5 less than another positive number. Six times the lesser number minus 3 times the greater number is 3. Find the two positive numbers.

Answer 1

a = b - 5

6a - 3b = 3

 

Now substitute...

 

6(b - 5) - 3b = 3

6b - 30 - 3b = 3

3b = 33

b = 11

 

a = 11 - 5 = 6