1. Problem Solving Procedure

2. When solving word problems in class, you are to use the G.U.E.S.S. Method. I don’t mean just taking a stab in the dark.

3. The first thing you need to do is READ THE PROBLEM, not just look at the question and say “I don’t know what to do.”

4. Each letter of the G.U.E.S.S Method is a specific step to solving the problem.

5. By following the steps, the problem will solve itself. That and it’s required for all word problems. If you show NO work, you get NO credit!

6. GIVEN This is information found or stated in the problem.

7. UNKNOWN This is what you are asked to find or solve for.

8. Equation Decide which equation you can use, based upon the unknown and given information.

9. Substitution Substitute the given information into the equation.

10. Solution Solve the problem, do the MATH. Don’t forget the Units.

11. Sometimes in the Equation step, you will need to rearrange the equation. So that it is set up to solve for the unknown.

12. Missing steps will result in the loss of points. Most problems are worth 5 points each. If you just put the answer down, 1 point will be given. This isn’t about getting it right, its about thinking skills.