Story problems

Question

Randall is 6 years older than Amy. In 7 years the sum of their ages will be 46. How old is Randall now?

Answer 1

Step 1: Solve for Randall's age

R = Randall = A + 6  (Amy's age + 6)

A = Amy

Step 2: Solve for R + A = 46

A + 6 + A = 46

2A + 6 = 46

Step 3: Move +6 to the right side (remember, when you move sides, you move the sign)

2A = 46 - 6

Step 4: Divide both sides by 2

2A/2 = 46 - 6/2

A = 20 (Amy's future age)

 

 

CHECK

 

Future age R + A = 46

                R + 20 =  46

                   - 20  = -20  

 

                  R = 26 (Randall's future age)

 

 

Current age - Randall = 26 - 7 = 19

 

Current age - Amy         = 20 - 7 = 13