- #1
jaytheseer
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Dominic spent 1/4 of his money on a pair of socks, 1/5 of it on a magazine and 50 on a snack. If he had 82 left, how much money did he start with?
jaytheseer said:Sorry, but I still can't solve it with this formula. :(
jaytheseer said:To be honest, I can't follow your instructions anymore. Sorry to bother you guys but I think I already forgot the basics. (Angry)
Here's my idea (and please tell me if I'm getting anywhere with this).
I will start by subtracting 1/4 - 1/5 - 50/1.
MarkFL said:Those terms are not "like terms" as the fractions 1/4 and 1/5 represent portions of Dominic's beginning funds, and 50 is an absolute rather than relative amount.
To factor as I suggested, consider the expression:
\(\displaystyle xy+xz\)
We see that both terms have $x$ as a factor, and so we may write:
\(\displaystyle xy+xz=x(y+z)\)
So, our equation (after adding 50 to both sides) is:
\(\displaystyle M-\frac{1}{4}M-\frac{1}{5}M=132\)
What you can do now, is factor $M$ out to get:
\(\displaystyle M\left(1-\frac{1}{4}-\frac{1}{5} \right)=132\)
Do you understand what I did there?
Now you may combine the numeric terms within the parentheses. You will need to get a common denominator. What is:
\(\displaystyle 1-\frac{1}{4}-\frac{1}{5}\) ?
So those are the sides we're talking about. Thanks for always making things easier for me to digest. (Headbang)Deveno said:Let's start with MarkFL's equation:
$M - \dfrac{1}{4}M - \dfrac{1}{5}M - 50 = 82$.
Following his suggestion, we will add 50 to both sides:
$M - \dfrac{1}{4}M - \dfrac{1}{5}M - 50 + 50 = 82 + 50$
$M - \dfrac{1}{4}M - \dfrac{1}{5}M + 0 = 82 + 50$
$M - \dfrac{1}{4}M - \dfrac{1}{5}M = 82 + 50$
$M - \dfrac{1}{4}M - \dfrac{1}{5}M = 132$.
Does this make sense to you?
jaytheseer said:Somehow I got the point but I think I need to review factoring for that.
Is this correct?
1-1/20
jaytheseer said:MarkFL and Deveno, I really am so thankful for your patience in helping me out with my basic math problems.
Based on how I responded to all of your suggestions, what do you think are the topics that I need to review to be able to solve this type of math problem? I really want to learn more in mathematics.
One strategy is to start by identifying the key elements or variables in the problem. Then, try to understand how each of these elements is related to each other. This can help you break down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts.
There are many resources available to help with problem-solving, such as textbooks, online tutorials, and forums where you can ask for help. Additionally, don't be afraid to reach out to colleagues or mentors who may have experience with similar problems.
Sometimes, when you're stuck on a problem, it can be helpful to take a step back and approach it from a different angle. This could mean looking at the problem from a different perspective or trying a different method of solving it.
One strategy is to set smaller, achievable goals for yourself as you work through the problem. This can help you feel a sense of progress and keep you motivated. Additionally, taking breaks and engaging in activities you enjoy can help you stay refreshed and focused.
One way to check your work is to go back through your problem-solving process and make sure all of your steps are logical and accurate. You can also try to solve the problem using a different method to see if you get the same result. Additionally, asking for feedback from others can help you identify any mistakes or areas for improvement.