Make a Picture or Diagram
It may be helpful to use an available picture or make a picture or diagram when trying to solve the problem. Using diagrams is almost necessary for some problems, particularly those which involve mapping.
Example Problem
Maria started at the bottom of the steps. She walked up 5 stairs but she dropped her pencil and it fell down 4 steps so she went to get it. She walked up 11 more steps and dropped her purse down 3 steps. She went to get it and then walked up 5 more steps to the top of the stairs. How many steps were there?
If you are having trouble, look at the diagram below.
If you are having trouble, look at the diagram below.