how can i solve word problems

Question

In June, Ryan sold twice as many newspaper subscriptions as George. In July, Ryan sold 5 fewer subscriptions than he did in June, while George sold 3 more subscriptions than he did in June. If they sold the same number of subscriptions in July, how many subscriptions did each sell in June?

Answer 1

Ryan sold twice as many newspaper subscriptions as George

 

R = 2G    (June), so G (June) = R (June)/2

 

In July, Ryan sold 5 fewer subscriptions than he did in June,

 

R (June) - 5 = R (July)

 

2G - 5 = R (July)

 

while George sold 3 more subscriptions than he did in June

 

G (July) = (R (June)/2) + 3

 

they sold the same number of subscriptions in July

 

R (June) - 5 =  (R (June)/2) + 3

 

RJ - 5 = ( RJ/2) +3

 

2RJ - 10 = RJ + 6

 

RJ = 16  Ryan sold 16 in June

 

R = 2G (June), so, George sold 8