Type any math word problem into the box above and get a clear, step-by-step solution. Our AI engine reads the words, sets up the math, and walks you through every step so you actually understand the answer.
Free · Step-by-step worked solutions · Works on any device
What this word problem solver does
Word problems are tricky because the math is hidden inside sentences. This math word problem solver does the hardest part for you: it reads the problem, decides what is being asked, picks the right operations or equations, and then shows the full solution one step at a time.
You can use it for a wide range of problems, including:
- Arithmetic and money — totals, change, unit prices, discounts, and sales tax.
- Percent problems — percent increase, decrease, tips, and markups.
- Rate, distance, and time — speed, travel time, and work-rate questions.
- Ratios and proportions — scaling recipes, maps, and mixtures.
- Algebra word problems — age, number, consecutive-integer, and “two unknowns” setups.
Tip: type it the way you’d say it
You don’t need special formatting. Enter the problem in plain English, or use the equation editor for fractions and exponents. The clearer the wording, the cleaner the steps you’ll get back.
Worked examples
Here are three common problem types, fully worked so you can see the kind of reasoning the solver shows.
Example 1: A two-part rate problem
A car drives at \( 60 \) mph for \( 2.5 \) hours, then slows to \( 45 \) mph for \( 1.5 \) hours. How far did it travel in total?
Use \( \text{distance} = \text{speed} \times \text{time} \) for each part.
First part:
$$ 60 \times 2.5 = 150 \text{ miles} $$Second part:
$$ 45 \times 1.5 = 67.5 \text{ miles} $$Add the two distances:
$$ 150 + 67.5 = 217.5 \text{ miles} $$Example 2: Discount then sales tax
A jacket is priced at \( \$80 \). It is on sale for \( 25\% \) off, and then \( 8\% \) sales tax is added. What is the final price?
Find the discount amount:
$$ 80 \times 0.25 = 20 $$Subtract it to get the sale price:
$$ 80 - 20 = 60 $$Add \( 8\% \) tax on the sale price:
$$ 60 \times 0.08 = 4.80 $$ $$ 60 + 4.80 = 64.80 $$Common mistake
Tax is charged on the discounted price, not the original \( \$80 \). Always apply the discount first, then the tax.
Example 3: An age problem (algebra)
Maria is \( 3 \) times as old as her brother. In \( 6 \) years, she will be twice as old as he is. How old are they now?
Let the brother’s age be \( x \), so Maria’s age is \( 3x \). In \( 6 \) years:
$$ 3x + 6 = 2(x + 6) $$Expand the right side:
$$ 3x + 6 = 2x + 12 $$Subtract \( 2x \) from both sides, then subtract \( 6 \):
$$ x = 6 $$So the brother is \( 6 \) and Maria is \( 3 \times 6 = 18 \). Check: in \( 6 \) years he is \( 12 \) and she is \( 24 \), and \( 24 = 2 \times 12 \). It works.
How to use the word problem solver
- Enter your problem. Type the full word problem in the box, or use the equation editor for any fractions, exponents, or symbols.
- Press solve. Our AI engine identifies what’s being asked, sets up the equation, and computes the result.
- Follow the steps. Read each line, compare it to your own work, and re-solve to confirm you can do it on your own.
Study smarter
Try solving the problem yourself first, then use the solver to check your method. Seeing where your setup differs is the fastest way to learn.
Related step-by-step guides
- How to Solve Math Word Problems — a step-by-step strategy for turning sentences into equations.
- Order of Operations (PEMDAS) Explained — the rules that keep your multi-step calculations correct.
Keep solving
Once you’ve set up the math, finish the job with our Equation Solver or dig deeper with the Algebra Solver.
