These are the steps that we'll use to solve word problems, but there are some questions that we can ask ourselves to help with working our way through these steps:

• What info is given?

• What do I need to work out?

• Which type of model will work best for this type of problem?
• Is there a total given?
• Are there parts given?
• Which part is larger?
• Are there 2 parts to be compared?
• Which 2 parts need to be compared?
• Which part is larger?

• How many bars should I draw?

• How should I label my model to make it match the info given?

Using the 7 Steps and these guiding questions together should help us get through most any problem they can throw our way.  Let's see!