Decoding Math Word Problems for the EDPT

The Math Word Problems section on the EDPT isn't just a test of your math skills; it's a test of your ability to translate a real-world scenario into a logical sequence of mathematical steps. This is a vital skill in technical and programming fields, where you constantly need to turn a problem or a goal into a logical process. This lesson will give you a universal strategy to break down any word problem you'll face.

The 4-Step Universal Strategy

Every word problem can be solved by following a consistent, four-step process. Don't just jump into the numbers; start by understanding the problem itself.

Understand the Goal: Read the entire problem and identify the one specific question you need to answer. What unit should the answer be in (e.g., miles, hours, dollars)?
Identify the Givens: Go back through the problem and pull out all the numbers and key pieces of information. Write them down on your scratch paper.
Formulate a Plan: This is the most critical step. Decide which mathematical operations or formulas you need to use to get from your "Givens" to your "Goal."
Execute and Check: Do the calculations. Once you have an answer, quickly reread the question and ask yourself: "Does this answer make sense?" This final check can help you catch simple mistakes.

Common EDPT Problem Types & How to Plan for Them

While problems can vary, they often fall into a few common categories. Here’s how to plan for them:

1. Rate, Time, and Distance

The Scenario: Problems involving travel, speed, and time.
The Plan: Use the classic formula: Distance = Rate × Time (D=RT). You can rearrange it to solve for any of the three variables (R = D/T or T = D/R).
Example: A train travels at 60 mph for 2.5 hours. How far does it travel?
- Goal: Find the distance.
- Givens: Rate = 60 mph, Time = 2.5 hours.
- Plan: Use D = R × T.
- Execute: Distance = 60 × 2.5 = 150 miles.

2. Work-Rate Problems

The Scenario: Two or more people or machines working together to complete a job.
The Plan: Think in terms of "work per hour." The formula is: (1/A) + (1/B) = 1/T, where A is the time it takes person A alone, B is the time for person B alone, and T is the time working together.
Example: Programmer A can write a code in 3 hours. Programmer B can do it in 6 hours. How long will it take them working together?
- Goal: Find the time together (T).
- Givens: A = 3 hours, B = 6 hours.
- Plan: Use (1/A) + (1/B) = 1/T.
- Execute: (1/3) + (1/6) = 1/T -> (2/6) + (1/6) = 1/T -> 3/6 = 1/T -> 1/2 = 1/T. Therefore, T = 2 hours.

3. Percentages, Ratios, and Proportions

The Scenario: Problems involving discounts, increases, or comparing quantities.
The Plan:
- For percentages, remember that "of" means multiply (e.g., 20% of 50 is 0.20 × 50).
- For ratios, set up a fraction to represent the relationship.
Example: A computer originally costing $800 is on sale for 25% off. What is the sale price?
- Goal: Find the final sale price.
- Givens: Original price = $800, Discount = 25%.
- Plan: Calculate the discount amount and subtract it from the original price.
- Execute: Discount = 0.25 × $800 = $200. Sale Price = $800 - $200 = $600.

Pro Tips for the EDPT Math Section

Time Suckers: Don’t
No Calculators: All calculations must be done by hand. Practice your mental math and multiplication tables.
Draw It Out: For problems involving shapes or distances, a quick sketch on your scratch paper can make the relationships much clearer.
Watch Your Units: Make sure all your units are consistent before you start calculating (e.g., convert minutes to hours if the speed is in mph).
Translate Words to Math: Learn to recognize key phrases:
- "Is," "are," "was" -> =
- "Of," "times" -> ×
- "Per" -> ÷
- "More than" -> +
- "Less than" -> -

Math