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The
simplest or easiest way to solve a problem
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There are many
ways to come up with the correct solution to a problem, however
coming up with the solution in the most efficient
(most effective, fewest steps) way will cut
down on careless mistakes. |
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It is important to solve a problem
in a way you're most comfortable with. If you prefer adding to
multiplying then add, or subtracting to dividing, then subtract however,
some operations are not interchangeable so let's be careful of that.
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Examples: Find the perimeter of a
square that has a side measuring 6 inches. |
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1st way: Add all 4 sides
6+6+6+6= 24inches |
2nd way:
Take the length of the side and
multiply it by 4.
6x4=24inches
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3rd way: Take the length x2 and add it to
the width x2. (2xl)+(2xw).
(6x2)+(6x2)=24inches
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The 2nd way is probably the most efficient way of
solving this problem. However the important thing is getting the correct
solution to the problem.
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Examples: Solve 3/4 + 5/12 = |
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1st way: Change 3/4 to 9/12,
Then solve 9/12 + 5/12 = 14/12.
Next reduce fraction 14/12 to 7/6.
Finally change the improper fraction to
the mixed number 1 1/6. |
2nd way: Change 3/4 to 36/48 and
5/12 to 20/48. Then solve 36/48 +
20/48 = 56/48. Next change the improper
fraction to mixed number 1 8/48.
Finally reduce the fraction to 1 1/6.
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3rd way:
Change 3/4 to 18/24 and 5/12 to
10/24. Then solve 18/24 + 10/24 =
28/24. Next change the improper fraction
to mixed number 1 4/24.
Reduce the fraction 1 4/24 to 1 2/12.
Finally reduce 1 2/12 to 1 1/6.
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The 1st way is probably the most efficient way of
solving this problem. However the important thing is getting the correct
solution to the problem.
Ready for Practice?
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