The process involves converting a verbal statement into a mathematical expression that requires only one operation to solve for the unknown variable. For example, the phrase “a number increased by five equals twelve” can be represented as the equation x + 5 = 12. Solving this equation for ‘x’ requires a single subtraction step.
The ability to convert between textual descriptions and simple algebraic expressions provides a foundational skill in mathematics and problem-solving. This conversion allows for a structured approach to quantifying relationships and finding solutions to basic quantitative problems. Historically, this skill has been crucial in various fields such as physics, engineering, and economics, where real-world scenarios are often first described verbally and then analyzed using mathematical models.