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Word problems are one of the first ways we see applied math, and also one of the most anxiety producing math challenges many grade school kids face. This page has a great collection of word problems that provide a gentle introduction to word problems for all four basic math operations. You'll find addition word problems, subtraction word problems, multiplication word problems and division word problems, all starting with simple easy-to-solve questions that build up to more complex skills necessary for many standardized tests. As they progress, you'll also find a mix of operations that require students to figure out which type of story problem they need to solve. And if you need help, check out word problem tricks at the bottom of this page!

Addition Word Problems

20 word problems worksheets.

These introductory word problems for addition are perfect for first grade or second grade applied math.

Subtraction Word Problems

These worksheets include simple word problems for subtraction with smaller quantities. Watch for words like difference and remaining.

Mixed Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

8 word problems worksheets.

This set of worksheets includes a mix of addition and subtraction word problems. Students are required to figured out which operation to apply given the problem context.

Multiplication Word Problems

This is the first set of word problem worksheets the introduces multiplication. These worksheets include only multiplication story problems; see worksheets in the following sections for mixed operations.

Division Word Problems

These division story problems deal with only whole divisions (quotients without remainders.) This is a great first step to recognizing the keywords that signal you are solving a division word problem.

Girl Scout Cookie Division

If you've been working as Troop Cookie Mom (or Dad!) you'll know what kind of math we've been practicing... These worksheets are primarily division word problems that introduce remainders. Pull your tagalongs or your thin mints out of the box and figure out how many remainders you'll be allowed to eat!

Division With Remainders Word Problems

24 word problems worksheets.

The worksheets in this section are made up of story problems using division and involving remainders. These are similar to the Girl Scout problems in the prior section, but with different units.

Mixed Multiplication and Division Word Problems

This worksheets combine basic multiplication and division word problems. The division problems do not include remainders. These worksheets require the students to differentiate between the phrasing of a story problem that requires multiplication versus one that requires division to reach the answer.

Mixed Operation Word Problems

The whole enchilada! These workshes mix addition, subtraction, multiplication and division word problems. These worksheets will test a students ability to choose the correct operation based on the story problem text.

Extra Facts Addition Word Problems

One way to make a word problem slightly more complex is to include extra (but unused) information in the problem text. These worksheets have addition word problems with extra unused facts in the problem.

Extra Facts Subtraction Word Problems

Word problem worksheets for subtraction with extra unused facts in each problem. The worksheets start out with subtraction problems with smaller values and progress through more difficult problems.

Extra Facts Addition and Subtraction Word Problems

Mixed operation addition and subtraction word problem worksheets with extra unused facts in the problems.

Extra Facts Multiplication Word Problems

Word problems for multiplication with extra unused facts in the problem. The worksheets in this set start out with multiplication problems with smaller values and progress through more difficult problems.

Extra Facts Division Word Problems

The worksheets in this section include math word problems for division with extra unused facts in the problem. The quotients in these division problems do not include remainders.

Extra Facts Multiplication and Division Word Problems

16 word problems worksheets.

This is a collection of worksheets with mixed multiplication and division word problems and extra unused facts in the problem. The quotients in these division problems do not include remainders.

Travel Time Word Problems (Customary)

28 word problems worksheets.

These story problems deal with travel time, including determining the travel distance, travel time and speed using miles (customary units). This is a very common class of word problem and specific practice with these worksheets will prepare students when they encounter similar problems on standardized tests.

Travel Time Word Problems (Metric)

Wondering when the train arrives? These story problems deal with travel time, including determining the travel distance, travel time and speed using kilometers (metric units).

Tricks for Solving Word Problems

The math worksheets on this section of the site deal with simple word problems appropriate for primary grades. The simple addition word problems can be introduced very early, in first or second grade depending on student aptitude. Follow those worksheets up with the subtraction word problems once subtraction concept are covered, and then proceed with multiplication and division word problems in the same fashion.

Word problems are often a source of anxiety for students because we tend to introduce math operations in the abstract. Students struggle to apply even elementary operations to word problems unless they have been taught consistently to think about math operations in their day to day routines. Talking with kids regularly about 'how many more do you need' or 'how many do you have left over' or other seemingly simple questions when asked regularly can build that basic number sense that helps enormously when word problems and applied math start to show up.

There are many tricks for solving word problems that can bridge the gap, and they can be helpful tools if students are either struggling with where to start with a problem or just need a way to check their thinking on a particular problem.

Make sure your student reads the entire problem first. It is very easy to start reading a word problem and think after the first sentence or two that 'I know what they're asking for...' and then have the problem take an entirely different turn. Overcoming this early solution bias can be difficult, and it is much better to develop the habit of making a complete pass over the problem before deciding on a path to the solution.

There are particular words that seem to show up in word problems for different operations that can tip you off to what might be the correct operation to apply. These key words aren't a sure-fire way to know what to do with a problem, but they can be a useful starting point.

For example, phrases like 'combined,' 'total,' 'together' or 'sum' are very often signals that the problem is going to involve addition.

Subtraction word problems very often use words such as 'difference,' 'less,' or 'decrease' in their wording. Word problems for younger kids will also use verbs like 'gave' or 'shared' as a stand-in for subtraction.

The key phrases to watch out for multiplication word problems include obvious ones like 'times' and 'product,' but also be on the look out for 'for each' and 'every.'

Learning when to apply division in a word problem can be tricky, especially for younger kids who haven't fully developed a concept of what division can be used for... But that's exactly why division word problems can be so useful! If you see words like 'per' or 'among' in the word problem text, your division radar should be sounding off loud and clear. Pay attention to 'shared among' and make sure students don't confuse this phrasing with a subtraction word problem. That's a clear example of when paying attention to the language is very important.

Draw a Picture!

One key bit of advice, especially for basic word problems, is to encourage students to draw a picture. Most early grade school word problems are basic counting exercises, where you're dealing with quantities or sets that are fairly small. If students can draw a picture of the problem (even using simple representations like squares or circles for the units discussed in the problem), then it can help them visualize exactly what's occurring.

Another useful visualization strategy is to use manipulatives. Paper clips, checkers or other handy objects can stand in place of the problem's subject, and this provides an opportunity to work up other simple examples with different numbers.

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Create Word Problem Worksheets

Use these fun math problems to help your students think logically, creatively and mathematically

• Word Problem Worksheets
• Solving Word Problems
• Addition/Subtraction/Mixed - One Digit
• Addition/Subtraction/Mixed - Two Digits
• Multiplication/Division/Mixed - One Digit
• Multiplication/Division/Mixed - Larger Numbers

What Are The Steps To Solving Math Word Problems?

Solving math word problems can be challenging, but breaking the process down into steps can help make it more manageable and less intimidating. Here are the general steps to follow when solving math word problems:

1. Read the Problem Carefully – Begin by reading the entire word problem carefully. Make sure you understand the situation, the question being asked, and any information provided.

2. Identify the Key Information – Pick out the essential information from the problem. Identify what is given and what you need to find. Look for numbers, quantities, and any relevant facts or details.

3. Translate the Words into Math – Convert the words and phrases in the problem into mathematical expressions or equations. Use variables to represent unknown quantities and choose appropriate operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) based on the problem’s context.

4. Set Up the Equation or Inequality – Write down the equation or inequality that represents the problem. Use the information you identified in step 2 to create the mathematical expression that relates the quantities involved.

5. Solve the Equation or Inequality – Solve the mathematical expression you set up in step 4. Depending on the problem, you may need to perform various mathematical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division, to find the solution.

6. Check Your Solution – After finding the solution, double-check your work. Ensure that your answer makes sense in the context of the problem. Ask yourself if the solution is reasonable and aligns with the question posed in the word problem.

7. Clearly State the Answer – Present your answer in a clear and organized manner. Write out the solution with appropriate units if applicable. Make sure it directly addresses the question asked in the problem.

8. Review and Proofread – Before submitting your answer, review your work and proofread your solution. Check for any errors, both mathematical and grammatical, to ensure accuracy.

9. Practice and Learn from Mistakes – To improve your problem-solving skills, practice solving a variety of math word problems regularly. Learn from your mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

10. Seek Help When Needed – If you’re stuck on a particular problem or concept, don’t hesitate to seek help from a teacher, tutor, or classmate. Sometimes, discussing the problem with others can provide valuable insights.

Remember that solving math word problems is a skill that improves with practice. As you gain experience and confidence, you’ll become more proficient at identifying key information, setting up equations, and arriving at correct solutions. Patience and perseverance are key when tackling math word problems.

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The 3 Reads Protocol for Solving Word Problems

Raise your hand if you wish your students were more confident and successful in solving word problems. Right, that’s what I thought. And the answer probably doesn’t change much based on your grade level. Face it, word problems are just plain hard!

What DOESN’T WORK

Over the years, very well-intentioned teachers have developed strategies designed to help students solve word problems . Two such strategies that are still quite prevalent are “problem-solving” models and the use of keywords. The idea is that if you follow these steps and look for these keywords, you will be able to solve any word problem. Unfortunately, it’s just not that simple, and despite their widespread use, these strategies are not very effective.

If you look at the CUBES problem-solving model, reading the problem is not even one of the steps! And if you’re thinking,  Well, of course students know to read the problem! you might want to watch this model in action. I have more often than not seen students just literally start circling numbers (and not even the labels that go with the numbers…) without ever having read the problem. And keywords are not reliable either. Some word problems have no keywords, and keywords in multi-step problems end up confusing students because of the mixed messages they send.

So can we just agree that something else is needed and put these “strategies” to rest? Students fail at solving word problems for one reason—they don’t understand what the problem is asking them to do. It’s a comprehension problem, so students need reading comprehension skills.

The 3 Reads Protocol

Let me first say that if you search the Internet for 3 Reads Protocol , you’ll find that there are slightly differing versions. What I’m about to describe is the version that I find to be particularly effective. Regardless of the version, we are reading the problem three different times and each reading has a different focus.

The 3 Reads Protocol is a guided learning experience. Students are presented with the problem in stages, and with each read the teacher asks probing questions. Looking at an example is probably the easiest way to understand the protocol, so let’s dive in.

To begin the 3 Reads Protocol, the teacher presents the students with a problem, and the class reads the problem together. Probably the easiest way to do this is with a PowerPoint or Google Slides file. Notice that with the first read, there are no numbers and no question. We just want the students to understand what the story is about and make a mental picture. Without numbers, students have to focus on the meaning of the words! After reading the problem together, the teacher asks what the story is about and calls on students for responses. Don’t be surprised if the responses are very general at first ( girls, flowers,  etc.). Ask for additional details, if necessary. Ideally, for this problem, you’d like the students to offer the names of the girls and the types of flowers.

For the second read, the problem is again presented to the students, but this time it includes the numbers. Read the problem again whole class. The questions you will ask now are all related to the numbers in the story. Our goal is for the students to understand that it’s not just 10, it’s 10 daisies . Students might also offer relationships—e.g., Natassja picked more daisies than Ayriale.

Finally, with the third read, students are asked to generate questions that could be answered using the information in the problem. Even though the problem looks just like it did for the second read, don’t skip the reading part! Some problems won’t lend themselves to very many different questions. I like to use this problem as an example because many different questions can be generated. Why? Because there are lots of different numbers in the problem. Here’s a sampling of questions that could be asked. I’m sure you can think of many others.

• How many flowers did Ayriale pick?
• How many flowers did Ayriale and Natassja pick?
• Which girl picked more flowers? How many more?
• How many daisies did the girls pick?

That’s the protocol in a nutshell! Once a question or questions have been generated, you can have students go on to solve the problem.

Frequently asked questions

1. When students are solving word problems independently, do I ask them to ignore the numbers and the question?

No! That would be pretty much impossible for them to do. By routinely solving problems using the 3 Reads Protocol with either the whole class or in small groups, you are helping students develop good reading habits that will transfer to their independent work. When they are working independently, the idea is that they will automatically think about the context, identify what the numbers mean within that context, and better understand what the question is asking them to find.

2. Where do I find problems for the 3 Reads Protocol?

I’m sure you can find some that have already been prepared, but it’s super easy to make your own! Just set up a PowerPoint or Google Slides file and format it however you like. Maybe you want a colorful border or a particular font. Use problems that you already have from your resources—textbooks, supplemental books, etc. You’ll need two slides for each problem. On the first slide, type the problem from your resource, leaving out the numbers and the question. On the second slide, add in the numbers. Use a nice big font so students can easily read the problem when projected on your interactive whiteboard. That’s all there is to it!

If you have other questions, add them in the comments below, and I’ll add them to the FAQ. I’d also love to hear how the 3 Reads Protocol is working out in your classroom!

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16 Comments

fantastic thoughts! I LOVE this approach. I’ve used a resource from Lucky Little Learners that is called Numberless Word Problems. This 3 reads protocol will work perfectly with that resource!

Yes! It does include elements of numberless word problems, which I was first introduced to by Brian Bushart .

I appreciate your thoughts on problem solving however the use of CUBES has been totally effective for the past three years with my students who never attempt word problems. You stated that not circling the “labels”, I suppose you mean units connected to the problem. I use this strategy daily and we circle both numbers and units. I’ve made it my own. Let me also reiterate that this strategy works exceptionally well with students who have low reading abilities too. I spend 5 weeks on CUBES and we slowly work our way into the Three Read Protocol which also helps the “non-reader”

Thank you for sharing your experiences! Since you transition to Three Reads, I’m curious why you wouldn’t start with it. I’d also be interested to know what grade level you teach.

I teach both 7th and 8th grade, and many times they have not had any experience with either. CUBEs is embedded with 3-read. I read the question. Students read the questions, we use cubes to understand quantities and the operations ( C and B) used to bring these quantities together. Then we underline the question to provide clarity and to determine what type of answer we are seeking. In our data, we found that our students do not attempt word problems on any formative assessments so we had to start with decreasing student fear of problem-solving and reading. When I used CUBES, I found that many students could answer the question however they had no idea what to do (operations) with the numbers due to a lack of experience,(key operational words) not knowledge ( they always wanted to add). Immediately, students would attempt word problems because CUBES allowed them to pull out what they needed, producing increased math confidence. As we continued with problem-solving, the 3 read protocol was introduced when solving multi-step word problems, student growth was tremendous!

Excellent post!

Thank you! This strategy has so much potential for teaching students to approach word problems in a much more meaningful way!

Hello! This strategy looks great and reaffirms how I’ve been teaching my son to read the problems through as many times as he needs to understand. Now I have the right questions to ask with each reading! Thank you! My question, are there still some strategies to go along with this protocol that you have found to be helpful to use in conjunction i.e. drawing a picture, making a chart, etc. Thanks so much!

I’m so glad this provides you with the missing link! Drawing a picture or diagram is another powerful strategy that goes really well with 3 Reads because it helps students visualize what’s going on in the problem.

Thank you for your post. The Three Read strategy is a gentle reminder of the power of cross-curricular reading strategies; coupling this annotation and graphic organizers will help students develop ways to process and solve simple to more complex multi-step word problems.

I am a math interventionist at an elementary school. We see students K-5 and realize how important it is for us to have a common process/language when it comes to word problems. Looking forward to learning more about this and helping guide our school, thank you!

I absolutely agree about using common language and strategies campus-wide! It’s so much more effective than students having to adjust to their teacher’s language/strategies every new year.

Thank you! I am going to try Three Reads Protocol for the first time next week with my 4th grade students. I am excited. I have had students read word problems all the way through before trying to solve the problem, however, I love the 3 Reads approach and the questions that go with each read. Thank you for breaking it down.

It’s a very powerful strategy! Good luck.

Many of the problems already include the question or questions. When first teaching the strategy, I can take the questions away and then we can compare to see if one of our questions matched the questions posed, but how to do facilitate the strategy when the question is there and you can’t take it away (thinking of assessments).

The idea is that when done regularly, students will develop comprehension skills that will transfer to solving “normal” word problems. They’ll know, for example, that reading it through the first time and ignoring the numbers helps them focus on what’s happening in the problem. You certainly want to help them make that connection, though. You might even show them a normal problem and explicitly model how to use 3 read strategies when the numbers and question are present.

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March 24, 2021 3-5-operations-and-algebraic-thinking , k-2-operations-and-algebraic-thinking , Math

Word problem solving strategies for students in grades k–4 [free templates], by: jeff todd.

Math problem solving strategies should begin as early as Kindergarten or Grade One! As nonfiction reading has seen a stronger emphasis in recent years, we can think of word problems as part of the genre of nonfiction. The downloads for today’s post include several templates or graphic organizers to help students make the connection between word problems and equations that represent those problems.

As a math teacher, I have heard many times that “we are all teachers of reading,” and this post will show how the two areas relate, both math and reading, as students create representations to help them move from words to equation and vice versa. Plus, grab my downloadable templates for multiple representations below! By using these templates to design lessons, you are able to address many of the Standards for Mathematical Practice that undergird math word problem solving strategies.

• SMP 1: Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them
• SMP 2: Reason abstractly and quantitatively
• SMP 4: Model with mathematics
• SMP 7: Look for and make use of structure

Manipulative and visual representation of math word problems are closely related. These representations are the math problem solving strategies that students can employ. I hope you’ll bear with me as I give a bit of the history of what I have learned about teaching students using manipulatives and representations. In the 1960s, Jerome Bruner coined the terms enactive, iconic, and symbolic to describe how students progress from using manipulatives, to making drawings based on the manipulatives, to using numbers and symbols alone. Today, we might call these steps concrete, representational (semi-concrete), and abstract. Singapore Math uses the terms concrete, pictorial, and abstract. These three sets of terms all refer to the same core strategy of using manipulatives with mastery to show a mathematical idea, then having students represent that idea using paper and pencil (re-presenting it), and, finally, using only numbers and symbols to represent it.

I would encourage you to have students first work with manipulatives such as teddy bear counters, little cubes, or even beans. These help to show the relationships between the situation students are reading about in a word problem. It is best to have them use the template to represent their idea using a ten frame, number bond, array or area model, and tape diagram (semi-concrete, pictorial or iconic representations). Finally, they will understand the meaning of the equation (abstract or symbolic representation) when they write it.

Math Word Problem Solving Strategies for Students

If you are looking for math word problem strategies in Kindergarten through Grade 4, you will find the downloadable templates below very helpful. By using the templates, you can give students strategies to read word problems and create representations to solve them, or even give them a representation and have them create word problems. Use these downloadable templates to give students math problem solving strategies involving addition, subtraction , multiplication, and division. Print them and use them today in your class!

Kindergarten and Grade 1—Adding

In the earliest grades, students are only expected to add. A typical word problem might be, “Chris has three oranges and two apples. How many pieces of fruit does Chris have all together?” Students can model the problem using cubes of different colors. The downloadable template has a spot for the question, then students can make a drawing based on their manipulatives. The key semi-abstract representations for these students are ten frames and number bonds. Particularly with number bonds, students are having to think about parts and totals. Finally, students write an addition sentence.

There are two templates available for adding . The first has one ten frame targeted for Kindergarten where students only add within ten. The second has two ten frames targeting first grade, where students add within twenty. Advanced students could be pushed to represent their addition sentences using a number line, but that is not included with this download.

Grades 1 and 2—Adding & Subtracting

As students progress through Grade 1 and into Grade 2, they are learning about the relationship between addition and subtraction. Conceptually, this is different from early work with just adding. Strategies for solving addition word problems with two addends can be formulaic. The two numbers in the word problem must be added, but when students encounter word problems with a missing part, they must have strategies and representations to think about parts and wholes.

On the template for adding and subtracting , you will find number bonds and a tape diagram. Each template has a frame with two number bonds, one with the “whole” x-ed out, the other with one of the “parts” x-ed out. Students need to read the problem and decide whether it is a missing-part or a missing-whole type problem. This is where we need to tie in the reading with the math. Similarly, students should complete the tape diagram using the part and whole ideas, but this time using a “?” or a letter as a variable to represent the unknown.

Finally, students should write at least one addition or subtraction sentence to represent the problem using a “?” or variable for the unknown. Then, they can write the number sentence showing the “solution” in place of the question mark or variable. Advanced students could be pushed to represent their number sentence using a number line, but that is not included with this download.

Grade 3 and 4—Multiplying & Dividing

Building on work in second grade, Grade 3 and Grade 4 students need to adopt strategies for solving word problems that involve multiplication and division. These problems require different representations than the strategies for math word problems involving addition and subtraction.

The downloadable template for Grades 3 and 4 include a space for an array model, an area model and a tape diagram. Just to be clear, students can represent multiplication and division word problems using any of these three representations:

You can see that this series of abstract representations of multiplication and division move from the more concrete (semi-abstract) versions where you can count dots or squares, to more abstract versions where students move away from counting to finding solutions. This also aids students in the beginning use of variables to represent unknowns, as they can label missing parts of the area or array models with a letter.

In the last box of the downloadable template, students are asked to write the equation using a variable or question mark for the unknown and then to “solve” it. By solving, I mean not using algebraic steps (i.e., divide both sides by three), but instead just to write “x = 7” in the case of the example immediately above. Students could use any form of reasoning, including going back to using physical counters and dividing them into equal groups.

How The Standards For Math Practice Relate To Using The Templates

I want to share some thoughts about how these downloadable templates can be used to develop students’ strategies to solve math word problems and tap into the Standards for Mathematical Practice (SMPs).

SMP 1: Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.

When students are asked to make a diagram, they must be clear about what parts and wholes are. Giving them representations such as number bonds, area and array models, or tape diagrams helps them make sense of the problems and the relationships of the elements that they find when reading the word problem.

SMP 2: Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

When students create a representation such as in Download 4, (3 boxes of “x” equal to 21), this is an abstract representation. It doesn’t say anything about what the problem is about. When students read a word problem involving quantities (three toys that cost $21 total) and make the tape diagram they move from quantities to abstractions. Another way to use these templates is to complete the tape diagram (or array or area model) and ask students to fill in the other boxes. In other words, students will create their own word problems from the tape diagram. They start with the abstract representation and come up with a quantitative idea (this problem could be 21 apples and three people or 21 chocolates and three boxes, etc).

SMP 4: Model with mathematics.

These kinds of models, such as area models and tape diagrams, if introduced early, will help students when they use area models in upper grades to model more complex problems.

SMP 7: Look for and make use of structure.

Reading word problems and then making representations using the templates will help students look for keywords and how they relate to the structure of parts and wholes, rows and columns, factors, totals, and divisors. Seeing the common underlying structures using number bonds, ten frames, area and array models, and tape diagrams helps to reinforce common underlying structures that appear in various word problems.

Download and use my free templates to help students make connections between word problems and equations that represent those problems. When you do this, you will engage students in the use of the Standards for Mathematical Practice outlined above, giving them ways to picture word problems in their heads and create representations that show the relationships of the quantities involved.

Fun teaching resources & tips to help you teach math with confidence

How to REALLY Help Kids Solve Math Word Problems

Recently, I was working on multiplying and dividing by 2 with one of my kids. A constant refrain was, “What does multiply mean?” or “But remember, what does that division sign represent?”

As they started to grapple with these concepts and play with manipulatives and pictures and equations, I tried to make sure we always came back to the why. But why are you counting by 2’s to get the answer? And why are we splitting our set into groups of 2? Or 2 equal groups?

Even after all that work, and a high level of confidence in solving basic problems, when we began to work through math word problems, what do you think they did?

Pulled out all the numbers and added. Yes, added. Even for division.

After spending so much time talking about multiplication and division and practicing with hands on manipulatives and drawing pictures …the gut response to a word problem was to pull out the numbers without thinking and add them all together !

Is this ever true of your kids? Are they “number pluckers?” Or do they feel confident solving math word problems of every shape and form?

If you’re looking for help teaching kids to solve word problems , here are some tips and ideas for you!

The Goal of Math Instruction

I think this begs the question, “Why are we doing this anyway?? Does it really matter if kids can solve word problems? Why can’t we just teach the facts?”

Well, I believe that ultimately our goal is not to produce quick and efficient machines (that’s what calculators are for), but rather to raise up strong problem solvers .

To help develop critical thinkers, and kids who apply logical reasoning and think outside the box.

I love this quote from S.Y. Gillan from the book, “ Problems Without Figures :”

Every problem in arithmetic calls for two distinct and widely different kinds of work: first, the solution, which involves a comprehension of the conditions of the problem and their relation to one another; second, the operation. First, we decide what to do ; this requires reasoning. Then we do the work; this is merely a mechanical process…Adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing do not train the power to reason, but deciding in a given set of conditions which of these operations to use and why, is the feature of arithmetic which requires reasoning.

Do you hear what he’s saying? We’re not just teaching kids to do the work : the actual process of adding 2 numbers together. We’re teaching kids to reason and then apply their reasoning to solve problems .

The Problem with Relying On Keywords in Math Word Problems

As we spend intentional time helping kids make sense of word problems, we have to help them make sense of the situation . That means we have to move away from relying on keywords . Why?

1. Relying on keywords can lead kids astray:

Even though we, as teachers, give kids lists of keywords with the very best of intentions, this is actually not helpful if they’re used in a different way than kids are used to.

Here’s an example. Say kids are given the following word problem:

Ben has eighteen toy cars. He has seven less than his brother Andy. How many toy cars does Andy have?

Immediately, kids see two numbers: 18 and 7. They then see the keyword “less,” and what operation do we typically associate that keyword with? Subtraction .

Therefore, kids complete the problem by subtracting 7 from 18 for an answer of 11 .

What’s the problem here?

Well, in this situation, we actually need to add to find the final solution . Have you ever seen “less” listed on a keyword chart under addition? I haven’t!

2. Not all math word problems include keywords:

Second, what about those problems that present a situation without an actual keyword? If kids are entirely dependent on keywords, they’ll just be lost!

Here’s a great article that explains the problem with keywords and includes a helpful exercise to help kids think about the situation.

Although each word problem includes the term “total,” they all require a different operation to solve it, forcing kids to think about the situation.

Read: Solving Math Word Problems Without Keywords .

3. Real life math doesn’t include keywords:

Finally, looking for keywords is not practical advice for real world problem solving. When our kids come against a situation in their life that requires math, there will be no keywords.

Just messy, real life.

So what can we do?

Well first, here are some questions you can ask and encourage your kids to ask as they seek to understand the situation rather than pluck out keywords or numbers:

• How would you describe the situation in your own words?
• How do you picture this problem in your mind?
• Can you draw a picture or model to represent this situation?

The goal is to really probe kids and force them to think about and picture the situation .

Yes, this takes more practice and work than plucking out numbers and keywords. But remember the end goal and press on!

Second, I have some math word problem solving templates that you can use to help your kids think about the situation, draw the situation and then do the actual calculations.

There are a few different templates here, so I hope you find one that will meet your needs!

The goal of these templates is to help kids draw a picture of the situation and use that to come up with a logical plan to solve.

We don’t want kids to throw logic and reasoning out the window. We want to encourage them to make reasonable decisions and strategies as they work out solutions .

Some include space to check their answer as well.

Simply enter your email in the form below and the math word problem templates will be sent your way!

Bethany, These resources are great! I enjoy reading the tips and references even more!! As an educator coming back to teaching math after not doing so for several years, I feel empowered! Thank you for your selflessness. I am very appreciative and so are my students.

Aw thank you so much for your kind words Charlene! I’m so glad you’re finding lots of great ideas and resources! I look forward to creating and sharing more in the future. 🙂

These are so helpful Thankyou 🙂

Dear Math Geek Mama,

I want to say Thank You for your endless resources and wisdom. I came upon this particular “Math Talk” at a time when I am teaching “Math Boot Camp” and assigned the higher level scholars. I am working on solving performance tasks which really are word problems and application and more!

You really made me think about keywords which is a huge focus of mine when I ask what the number clues are and the word(s) that tells what to do with those numbers. You are absolutely right that keywords can mean different things and are not absolute.

I really like your real to life examples, logic, and resources. I truly hope to purchase from you and not just use your freebies. You are more than generous and I thank you!

Mrs. Felicia Barlow

Hi Felicia!

Thank you so much for sharing your experiences and how this made you think more about keywords! They’re certainly not all bad, but I just think we have to be sure kids aren’t relying ONLY on keywords. And I’m so glad you’re able to find lots of fun resources here, I love sharing them. 🙂

Thank you for the templates

thank you this has been very insightful.

Bethany, Thank you, I hope you don’t mind if I grab your freebie, sometimes I help my grandkids with their math so I am here looking at how you are teaching math now-a-days. I remember doing grouping and sorting with my story problems as a child some 50 years ago. I guess maybe things haven’t changed . There was a time period I think teaching kind of got a bit lost but in some ways it seems to be getting back to the basics of teaching kids how to think. Thank you again I think this will help me with the kids. Have a great week. Martha

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10 Best Strategies for Solving Math Word Problems

1. Understand the Problem by Paraphrasing

2. identify key information and variables, 3. translate words into mathematical symbols, 4. break down the problem into manageable parts, 5. draw diagrams or visual representations, 6. use estimation to predict answers, 7. apply logical reasoning for unknown variables, 8. leverage similar problems as templates, 9. check answers in the context of the problem, 10. reflect and learn from mistakes.

Have you ever observed the look of confusion on a student’s face when they encounter a math word problem ? It’s a common sight in classrooms worldwide, underscoring the need for effective strategies for solving math word problems . The main hurdle in solving math word problems is not just the math itself but understanding how to translate the words into mathematical equations that can be solved.

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Generic advice like “read the problem carefully” or “practice more” often falls short in addressing students’ specific difficulties with word problems. Students need targeted math word problem strategies that address the root of their struggles head-on. 

A Guide on Steps to Solving Word Problems: 10 Strategies 

One of the first steps in tackling a math word problem is to make sure your students understand what the problem is asking. Encourage them to paraphrase the problem in their own words. This means they rewrite the problem using simpler language or break it down into more digestible parts. Paraphrasing helps students grasp the concept and focus on the problem’s core elements without getting lost in the complex wording.

Original Problem: “If a farmer has 15 apples and gives away 8, how many does he have left?”

Paraphrased: “A farmer had some apples. He gave some away. Now, how many apples does he have?”

This paraphrasing helps students identify the main action (giving away apples) and what they need to find out (how many apples are left).

Play these subtraction word problem games in the classroom for free:

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Students often get overwhelmed by the details in word problems. Teach them to identify key information and variables essential for solving the problem. This includes numbers , operations ( addition , subtraction , multiplication , division ), and what the question is asking them to find. Highlighting or underlining can be very effective here. This visual differentiation can help students focus on what’s important, ignoring irrelevant details.

• Encourage students to underline numbers and circle keywords that indicate operations (like ‘total’ for addition and ‘left’ for subtraction).
• Teach them to write down what they’re solving for, such as “Find: Total apples left.”

Problem: “A classroom has 24 students. If 6 more students joined the class, how many students are there in total?”

Key Information:

• Original number of students (24)
• Students joined (6)
• Looking for the total number of students

Here are some fun addition word problems that your students can play for free:

The transition from the language of word problems to the language of mathematics is a critical skill. Teach your students to convert words into mathematical symbols and equations. This step is about recognizing keywords and phrases corresponding to mathematical operations and expressions .

Common Translations:

• “Total,” “sum,” “combined” → Addition (+)
• “Difference,” “less than,” “remain” → Subtraction (−)
• “Times,” “product of” → Multiplication (×)
• “Divided by,” “quotient of” → Division (÷)
• “Equals” → Equals sign (=)

Problem: “If one book costs $5, how much would 4 books cost?”

Translation: The word “costs” indicates a multiplication operation because we find the total cost of multiple items. Therefore, the equation is 4 × 5 = $20

Complex math word problems can often overwhelm students. Incorporating math strategies for problem solving, such as teaching them to break down the problem into smaller, more manageable parts, is a powerful approach to overcome this challenge. This means looking at the problem step by step rather than simultaneously trying to solve it. Breaking it down helps students focus on one aspect of the problem at a time, making finding the solution more straightforward.

Problem: “John has twice as many apples as Sarah. If Sarah has 5 apples, how many apples do they have together?”

Steps to Break Down the Problem:

Find out how many apples John has: Since John has twice as many apples as Sarah, and Sarah has 5, John has 5 × 2 = 10

Calculate the total number of apples: Add Sarah’s apples to John’s to find the total,  5 + 10 = 15

By splitting the problem into two parts, students can solve it without getting confused by all the details at once.

Explore these fun multiplication word problem games:

Diagrams and visual representations can be incredibly helpful for students, especially when dealing with spatial or quantity relationships in word problems. Encourage students to draw simple sketches or diagrams to represent the problem visually. This can include drawing bars for comparison, shapes for geometry problems, or even a simple distribution to better understand division or multiplication problems .

Problem: “A garden is 3 times as long as it is wide. If the width is 4 meters, how long is the garden?”

Visual Representation: Draw a rectangle and label the width as 4 meters. Then, sketch the length to represent it as three times the width visually, helping students see that the length is 4 × 3 = 12

Estimation is a valuable skill in solving math word problems, as it allows students to predict the answer’s ballpark figure before solving it precisely. Teaching students to use estimation can help them check their answers for reasonableness and avoid common mistakes.

Problem: “If a book costs $4.95 and you buy 3 books, approximately how much will you spend?”

Estimation Strategy: Round $4.95 to the nearest dollar ($5) and multiply by the number of books (3), so 5 × 3 = 15. Hence, the estimated total cost is about $15.

Estimation helps students understand whether their final answer is plausible, providing a quick way to check their work against a rough calculation.

Check out these fun estimation and prediction word problem worksheets that can be of great help:

When students encounter problems with unknown variables, it’s crucial to introduce them to logical reasoning. This strategy involves using the information in the problem to deduce the value of unknown variables logically. One of the most effective strategies for solving math word problems is working backward from the desired outcome. This means starting with the result and thinking about the steps leading to that result, which can be particularly useful in algebraic problems.

Problem: “A number added to three times itself equals 32. What is the number?”

Working Backward:

Let the unknown number be x.

The equation based on the problem is  x + 3x = 32

Solve for x by simplifying the equation to 4x=32, then dividing by 4 to find x=8.

By working backward, students can more easily connect the dots between the unknown variable and the information provided.

Practicing problems of similar structure can help students recognize patterns and apply known strategies to new situations. Encourage them to leverage similar problems as templates, analyzing how a solved problem’s strategy can apply to a new one. Creating a personal “problem bank”—a collection of solved problems—can be a valuable reference tool, helping students see the commonalities between different problems and reinforcing the strategies that work.

Suppose students have solved a problem about dividing a set of items among a group of people. In that case, they can use that strategy when encountering a similar problem, even if it’s about dividing money or sharing work equally.

It’s essential for students to learn the habit of checking their answers within the context of the problem to ensure their solutions make sense. This step involves going back to the original problem statement after solving it to verify that the answer fits logically with the given information. Providing a checklist for this process can help students systematically review their answers.

Checklist for Reviewing Answers:

• Re-read the problem: Ensure the question was understood correctly.
• Compare with the original problem: Does the answer make sense given the scenario?
• Use estimation: Does the precise answer align with an earlier estimation?
• Substitute back: If applicable, plug the answer into the problem to see if it works.

Problem: “If you divide 24 apples among 4 children, how many apples does each child get?”

After solving, students should check that they understood the problem (dividing apples equally).

Their answer (6 apples per child) fits logically with the number of apples and children.

Their estimation aligns with the actual calculation.

Substituting back 4×6=24 confirms the answer is correct.

Teaching students to apply logical reasoning, leverage solved problems as templates, and check their answers in context equips them with a robust toolkit for tackling math word problems efficiently and effectively.

One of the most effective ways for students to improve their problem-solving skills is by reflecting on their errors, especially with math word problems. Using word problem worksheets is one of the most effective strategies for solving word problems, and practicing word problems as it fosters a more thoughtful and reflective approach to problem-solving

These worksheets can provide a variety of problems that challenge students in different ways, allowing them to encounter and work through common pitfalls in a controlled setting. After completing a worksheet, students can review their answers, identify any mistakes, and then reflect on them in their mistake journal. This practice reinforces mathematical concepts and improves their math problem solving strategies over time.

3 Additional Tips for Enhancing Word Problem-Solving Skills

Before we dive into the importance of reflecting on mistakes, here are a few impactful tips to enhance students’ word problem-solving skills further:

1. Utilize Online Word Problem Games

Incorporate online games that focus on math word problems into your teaching. These interactive platforms make learning fun and engaging, allowing students to practice in a dynamic environment. Games can offer instant feedback and adaptive challenges, catering to individual learning speeds and styles.

Here are some word problem games that you can use for free:

2. Practice Regularly with Diverse Problems

Consistent practice with a wide range of word problems helps students become familiar with different questions and mathematical concepts. This exposure is crucial for building confidence and proficiency.

Start Practicing Word Problems with these Printable Word Problem Worksheets:

3. Encourage Group Work

Solving word problems in groups allows students to share strategies and learn from each other. A collaborative approach is one of the best strategies for solving math word problems that can unveil multiple methods for tackling the same problem, enriching students’ problem-solving toolkit.

Conclusion 

Mastering math word problems is a journey of small steps. Encourage your students to practice regularly, stay curious, and learn from their mistakes. These strategies for solving math word problems are stepping stones to turning challenges into achievements. Keep it simple, and watch your students grow their confidence and skills, one problem at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can i help my students stay motivated when solving math word problems.

Encourage small victories and use engaging tools like online games to make practice fun and rewarding.

What's the best way to teach beginners word problems?

Begin with simple problems that integrate everyday scenarios to make the connection between math and real-life clear and relatable.

How often should students practice math word problems?

Regular, daily practice with various problems helps build confidence and problem-solving skills over time.

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Upper Elementary Teaching Blog

Free Error Analysis Math Printables for Multi-Step Word Problems

One of my (and my students’) favorite math centers and activities is definitely the Find the Error math activity that requires the students to analyze example work to find and explain the error made by the “student”. On this post, I will share how you can get multi-step error analysis math tasks for free!

Why Use Error Analysis in Math?

Error analysis is when students analyze an example of student work looking specifically for the error made by the student. As you can imagine, error analysis is a higher level thinking activity because it requires a deeper understanding of the skill or concept to be able to identify (and correct) errors.

I love using error analysis for a few reasons:

• Students love practicing math in a variety of ways and error analysis math tasks are definitely a favorite. They love pretending to be the “teacher” as they analyze completed work.
• Students need quite a bit of practice with math concepts and error analysis tasks provide an additional (and novel) way to offer that practice to your students (without burning them out).
• Finding errors made by others promotes higher level thinking skills.
• Using error analysis tasks gets the students eager to discuss and talk about the math as they find and explain errors.

About the Free Error Analysis Math Printables

When I received feedback on my error analysis math tasks from a teacher wanting to see more multi-step word problems included, I knew this was a definite need and would be very helpful.

My students often struggle with multi-step word problems. Allowing them to analyze and discuss work that shows the same errors they make when solving multi-step word problems would help them see these problems through another lens.

When creating error analysis tasks, I always try and include a variety of errors that I see my students make. The math errors in this free set include:

• Computation Errors
• Wrong Operation Errors
• Missing a Step Errors

This free resource includes 16 “Find the Error” math tasks for multi-step word problems available in two levels.

Level 1 – In this level, there are 10 error analysis math tasks that involve all four operations (basic math facts only). These are ideal for mid to end of 3rd grade, beginning of 4th grade, or remediation for 4th and 5th grade students.

Level 2 – In this level, there are 6 error analysis math tasks that involve all four operations (requiring multi-digit multiplication and division). These are ideal for mid to end of 4th grade or 5th grade students.

Each task includes a word problem and a sample student work (shown in a few different formats throughout the tasks) that incorrectly solves the problem. The incorrect student work is in a box to help the students quickly find it each time. The student is asked to determine the error and explain why he or she thinks the student made that error. Then the student has to solve the problem correctly.

Get the Free Error Analysis Math Tasks Here

To get these error analysis math tasks sent straight to your email, simply click on the image below and enter your email in the box. If you are already a subscriber, this freebie is separate from the exclusive freebie library , so make sure you enter your email again for these.

More Error Analysis Math Printables

If you want even more error analysis math tasks that are specific to the grade you teach, click your grade level shown in the collage below.

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3rd Grade Error Analysis Math Tasks

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January 6, 2022 at 12:19 pm

Help–

I am trying to figure out how to get these awesome error analysis freebies sent to my email. In your post it says to enter email in the box below. I do not see anywhere to enter my email unless I am signing up for the whole library or facts games.

January 11, 2022 at 2:45 pm

Where is this resource? I signed up and used the code to go to the free library but I did not get anything in my email about this resource.

October 10, 2023 at 10:05 am

To access the freebies, find the section titled: Get the Free Error Analysis Math Tasks Here and then follow the directions in that section. Hope this helps!

February 18, 2022 at 10:53 am

I was hoping to get the 4th grade Error Analysis freebie. Is it still available? https://jenniferfindley.com/free-error-analysis-math-printables-for-multi-step-word-probems/

October 6, 2023 at 12:07 pm

I entered several email addresses to get these awesome freebies. Each time it said “There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.” Is this a tricky way to get email addresses without sending any content?

October 10, 2023 at 10:02 am

Hi Mary, I just tested it with my email and it worked for me. Definitely not a trick to get email addresses. If you can send me an email to jen @ jenniferfindley.com (no spaces) with the subject error analysis freebies, we will get those sent to you. Or you can try again since the form is working and it may have been a glitch.

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Welcome Friends!

I’m Jennifer Findley: a teacher, mother, and avid reader. I believe that with the right resources, mindset, and strategies, all students can achieve at high levels and learn to love learning. My goal is to provide resources and strategies to inspire you and help make this belief a reality for your students.

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FREE Word Problem Solving Templates

Published: March 31, 2018

Contributor: Sarah Shelton

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my disclosure for more info.

Do your kids freeze up or get overwhelmed at the sight of a math word problem? Help them break it down using these word problem solving templates.

Learn how to help kids make sense of word problems, plus grab a free download from Bethany at Math Geek Mama that includes 7 different layouts. With so many options, you’re sure to find one that works best for your kids.

Learn more and get your free word problem templates here .

Sarah Shelton

Sarah is a wife, daughter of the King and Mama to 4 children (two homeschool graduates) She is a an eclectic, Charlotte Mason style homeschooler that has been homeschooling for over 20 years.. She is still trying to find the balance between work and keeping a home and gardens. She can only do it by the Grace of God, coffee and green juice

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Word Problem Solving Template - Read, Draw, Write

The best way to solve a complicated problem is to break it down. Help your students use the Read, Write, Draw strategy to solve word problems with this worksheet. 

This worksheet supports the  Two-Step Word Problems with Mixed Operations - Gamified! lesson plan.

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Problem Statement Templates

50 printable problem statement templates (ms word).

A problem statement is a short description of a problem or an issue which needs addressing or a condition which needs improvement. Making a problem statement template would allow you to identify the gap between the current state or the problem and the desired state or the goal of a product or a process. As this document focuses on the facts, the design of all problem statement examples addresses the 5W’s namely who, what, where, when, and why.

Table of Contents

• 1 Problem Statement Templates
• 2 What is a problem statement?
• 3 Problem Statement Examples
• 4 What are the goals of making a problem statement template?
• 5 Business Problem Statements
• 6.1 Think about your vision
• 6.2 Write down the issue statement
• 6.3 Plan your method for solving the problem
• 6.4 The 5W’s
• 7 Issue Statement Examples
• 8 Tips for polishing your problem statement template
• 9 Problem Statement Samples

What is a problem statement?

The first thing to do when you’re trying to solve a problem is to understand it. The best way to do this is through a statement of the problem. A problem statement is all about a specific area of concern, a condition which needs improvement, a difficulty which needs elimination or a troubling query which requires deliberate investigation and meaningful understanding. Organizations and businesses widely make use of business problem statements to execute projects which involve process improvement.

A problem statement template should discuss the gap between the current performance level and the desired performance level. It should contain relative or absolute measures of the issue to quantify the gap. However, it shouldn’t contain possible solutions or causes. Some key elements in such a document include:

• The gap which exists right now.
• The timeframe for solving the problem starting when you first observed it as well as the trend the problem follows.
• The impact of the problem and what you need to quantify the existing gap.
• The importance of finding the solution to the problem to emphasize its urgency.

Problem Statement Examples

What are the goals of making a problem statement template?

The main goal of making a problem statement template is to convert a generalized problem into a well-defined problem which you can focus on. To help you out, you may use this template or look through some issue statement examples so you can have a better idea of what the document contains. After composing the document, you can start resolving the issue through research and some well-thought-out decision-making.

Writing a statement of the problem may help you establish the purpose of a research project clearly. This document can also serve as your basis for the first part of the final proposal that you create. Therefore, it can help direct the reader’s attention to the problem that the project you’re proposing will deal with. This is a fairly simple document which may only need a single page to contain all f the relevant information.

Business Problem Statements

How to write a problem statement template?

As aforementioned, a problem statement gives you a clearer look of the overall method you can use to solve a problem. Therefore, a business problem statement would serve the same purpose but for a business setting. No wonder that field or industry you’re in, you can benefit a lot from making such a document. Here are some steps to guide you as you compose the document:

Think about your vision

If you want to make a decision on what to do to solve the problem, then you should think about your vision. Think about the benefits that may come out of solving the problem at hand. Take some time to write down your vision concisely.

Write down the issue statement

You can use a sentence or two to describe the problem. Specify the issues rather than making a statement without a solution. The issue statement would explain the problem and why it’s important to find a solution to it.

Plan your method for solving the problem

After identifying the problem, the next thing to do is to plan the method for solving it. This is one of the most important parts of the document as you would see in problem statement examples. Through the method, you will explain the steps you plan to take to solve the issue at hand.

The 5W’s

A great problem statement should answer the 5W’s:

• Who: it should explain the specific individuals, groups or organizations that the problem affects.
• What: it should describe the problem’s boundaries, the problem itself, the effect it has, what would happen if the problem gets solved or what would happen if you aren’t able to find a solution.
• When: it should state when the issue started and when you need to solve it.
• Where: it should state where the problem happens whether it’s just in a specific location or in different areas.
• Why: it should talk about the importance of solving the problem and how solving the problem would impact everyone and everything involved in it.

As you answer these questions, this would help you zero in on the issue at hand. Therefore, the problem in your document should be completely solvable. This means that it should take just the right amount of time to come up with a potential solution for it.

After answering all of the questions you’ve thought about, you will have a better grasp of your problem statement. You may have to create a few drafts until you’ve polished your problem statement sufficiently.

Issue Statement Examples

Tips for polishing your problem statement template

If you look at issue statement examples online, you’ll see that they are all brief but informative. This is one of the most important characteristics of problem statement templates. As you compose this document, make sure that you don’t make them longer than it needs to be.

As long as you’ve laid the problem out along with the simple methodology, then you don’t have to add anything else. In fact, adding too much information might end up confusing your readers. When you’re done with the document, it’s important to proofread and polish it as the final steps. Here are some tips to guide you:

• As you go through the content of the document, examine all of the sentences closely. If you find one which doesn’t contribute to the goals of the document directly, omit that sentence. Also, make sure that you only use clear and direct language when composing your sentences.
• When you write this document, you don’t have to add your own “flavor” or personal commentary as this might unnecessarily lengthen the document.
• Keep your audience in mind while you’re writing your problem statement document . Remember that you’re not making this document for yourself, other people will read the document. In most cases, the people who will read your document will have a lot of differences in terms of their knowledge, their reason for reading the document, and their attitude towards the issue at hand. Consider all these people as you compose the document.
• Try to avoid using technical jargon which people might not understand. If you think that you need to use such terms, make sure to define them briefly. In doing this, you can help your audience understand the message you want to convey without confusing them.
• However, if you know that you’re writing for people who have vast technical knowledge of the subject, then you may consider using such jargon. But if you want the document to have better versatility, then it’s best to use simple, direct sentences which anyone will understand.
• As you compose your problem try to make it as defined and as narrow as possible. The best kinds of problem statements are those which don’t ramble on or talk too much about unnecessary things. Rather, they focus on a single problem that’s easy to identify and has a real solution. In reality, narrow and defined topics are much easier to write compared to vague ones. Therefore, you should stick to the scope of your problem whenever possible.
• As a rule of thumb, you should only create a problem statement about an issue which you can solve without a doubt. If you discover that the problem you have doesn’t have a definitive solution, then you can try to narrow down the scope then modify your problem statement making it about your new focus.
• If you want to maintain the scope of your problem statement, you can try completing the content of your proposal first before composing your problem statement. Then you can make use of the actual proposal as your guideline so you don’t have to perform any guesswork.
• Always keep the 5W’s in mind. Problem statement templates should contain as much information as possible but written in a direct and concise way. If you’re not sure about what to make part of the problem statement, try to ask the 5W’s and answer all your own questions. This will provide you with the basic knowledge you need to understand the problem better, as well as the solution without having to add unnecessary details.
• As you write the document, make use of a formal voice just as you would for more serious projects and proposals . Employ a dignified and formal writing style for this document. Maintain the clarity, simplicity, and directness when writing the problem statement. You don’t have to “win over’ your reader by using a casual or friendly tone. Also, never use jokes, humor, anecdotes slang, jargon that’s too technical or pointless details.
• When you’re done, don’t print out the document just yet! Make sure to proofread the document first. This is an important step for any official documents. If you’re making the problem statement with a team, then more than one of you should perform the proofreading to make sure that there aren’t any grammatical or spelling errors.

Problem Statement Samples

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Free Problem Statement Templates: All Formats

By Kate Eby | March 4, 2024

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We've collected the top problem statement templates to help you identify and articulate challenges clearly and concisely in any business context. Download any of these free templates that align with your needs, and customize it for your organization.

On this page, you’ll find a  customer problem statement template , a  problem and solution slide template , a  problem statement document template , and more. You’ll also find information on different  types of problem statement templates and related  problem-solving tools .

5 Ws Problem Statement Template

Download a 5 Ws Problem Statement Template for

Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF | PowerPoint | Google Slides

When to Use This Template:  Use this 5 Ws problem statement template to create a methodical breakdown of issues at team meetings or brainstorming sessions. Ensure that nothing is overlooked by answering who, what, when, where, and why questions about a problem. By doing so, you can create a clear and concise problem statement.

Notable Template Features: Using five key questions to explore a problem fosters a comprehensive understanding of the issue while helping to narrow the focus of your final problem statement. Each segment of the template is color-coded and provides bullet points to delve into specifics, such as who is affected and the problem's scope and significance.

Customer Problem Statement Template

Download a Customer Problem Statement Template for

When to Use This Template:  This template provides a structured approach to translating client issues into an effective problem statement. It is especially useful for customer experience teams, marketing personnel, and product developers who are tasked with turning customer feedback into actionable insights.

Notable Template Features: This template takes you through the steps of clarifying customer issues and perspectives to help teams find customer-focused solutions. Download the template in PowerPoint or Google Slides  for presentations, or try the Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF versions to create a printable worksheet.

Three-Part Problem Statement Slide Template

Download a Three-Part Problem Statement Slide Template for

PowerPoint | Google Slides

When to Use This Template: Use this slide template to present key points to stakeholders in project reviews or strategic planning sessions. Teams can also use this template to facilitate problem-solving meetings.

Notable Template Features:  This template guides the audience from problem to solution to result, promoting a thorough understanding of the problem’s context. Each section includes bullet points to organize and present complex details in a simple yet engaging format.

Single-Problem Statement and Solution Slide Template

Download a Single-Problem Statement and Solution Slide Template for

When to Use This Template: This problem statement slide template allows you to clearly outline a problem and propose a viable solution in one visually dynamic slide, making it a perfect addition to business proposals, project pitches, and strategy meetings.

Notable Template Features:  This slide template separates the problem on the left from the solution on the right, using a clear layout and colorful symbols to grab the viewer's attention. This simple design ensures that the audience grasps the core issue quickly, facilitating a focused and efficient discussion.

For more slide template resources like this one, see this collection of free  PowerPoint problem statement templates .

Project Problem Statement Document Template

Download a Project Problem Statement Document Template for

Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF

When to Use This Template: Use this document template to draft a comprehensive problem statement report. The template is best for individuals or teams tasked with in-depth analysis and documentation of business issues, ensuring that they cover all relevant aspects of the problem.

Notable Template Features: This template features a structured outline with labeled sections for documenting the problem statement, background information, impact, and potential solutions. The outline takes readers through a logical progression — from identifying the problem to proposing solutions — for a clear and persuasive presentation.

Problem Statement Worksheet Template

Download a Problem Statement Worksheet Template for

Excel | Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF

When to Use This Template:  Use this worksheet to create an effective problem statement when starting a new project. The template is particularly useful for project teams that need to align on the specifics of a problem, set measurable goals, and identify obstacles and solutions.

Notable Template Features:  This problem statement worksheet guides you through a step-by-step process to craft a concise and impactful problem statement. The template includes clear sections where you can provide details about the problem, the gap between the current state and the goal, and the people or processes affected. It includes space for setting SMART goals related to the problem, identifying barriers, and formulating a plan to overcome these challenges.

Problem Statement Matrix Template

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When to Use This Template:  This template helps teams and managers prioritize multiple problems. Teams can assess and sort problems based on urgency and potential impact to effectively guide strategic action plans. 

Notable Template Features:  This template organizes essential aspects of each problem into a simple matrix, including a problem statement, priority, visibility, impact, response timeframe, and proposed solutions. The matrix format is useful when you want an overview of problems with key details highlighted.

Types of Problem Statement Templates

Problem statements are used in business settings and academic research to clearly define a problem that needs to be solved. A well-written statement is concise, narrow in focus, and based on evidence. While all problem statements include similar elements, they will vary depending on the context and type of issue. There are many tools that can aid in this process. 

Here’s a closer look at the different types of problem statement templates for project and product management:

Customer Problem Statement Templates

Customer problem statement templates guide you through the process of viewing issues from the customer’s perspective. They provide a structured approach to mapping out the customer journey, pinpointing the underlying cause of problems, and understanding their emotional impacts on customers.

Customer problem statement templates typically organize information into five key elements:  

• I Am: Who is the customer? This could be as broad as a demographic group or as specific as a user persona. Clearly defining your customer sets the foundation for a more targeted analysis.
• I Am Trying To: What is the customer trying to achieve? Articulate the customer's goal or what they hope to accomplish with your product or service. This helps in aligning your solutions with customer needs.
• But: What is getting in their way? Identify the challenges that prevent the customer from achieving their goals. These could be related to product features, service limitations, or external factors.
• Because: What is the root of the issue? Analyze the internal and external factors that contribute to the problem to uncover the underlying causes.
• Which Makes Me Feel: What is the customer's emotional response to this issue? Emotions can affect how customers perceive your product or service. If they're feeling frustration, disappointment, or confusion, they might be less likely to engage positively with your brand or recommend your services to others. Knowing this helps convey the urgency of addressing the problem.

Using a customer problem statement template shifts the focus from internal perceptions of what the problem might be to a clearer understanding of the customer's experience. The process involves gathering and analyzing customer feedback, conducting market research, and possibly engaging directly with customers through interviews or surveys. 

Product Problem Statement Templates

Since having a customer-centric perspective is vital for developing successful products, there is overlap between product and customer problem statement templates. However, understanding customer issues is just one step in the development process. Product teams must consider whether the solutions they come up with will truly benefit the customer, what value a product will bring to the company, what steps are needed to solve the problem, and how to measure success. 

One common structure for product problem statement templates is the 5 Ws framework, which involves answering the following questions:  

• Who: Who is the problem affecting?
• What: What is the unmet need?
• When: When is the problem happening?
• Where: Where is the problem occurring?
• Why: Why is this worth solving?

Some templates might include a sixth question: How are you going to solve the problem?

These templates can help teams identify initial product opportunities, refine product concepts, and diagnose issues in existing products. They help in prioritizing features, making strategic adjustments, and communicating the product vision and challenges internally.

Project Problem Statement Templates

Similar to customer and product templates, project problem statement templates help teams articulate the core issue they aim to address with their project. They are often used at early planning stages to gain clarity and consensus among stakeholders on the project's direction.

A project problem statement template typically includes the following elements:  

• Problem: Clearly define the issue at hand with a precise description of the gap between the current state and the desired state.
• Background: Provide context for the problem by offering insights into its origins and scope. This helps stakeholders understand the complexity and nuances of the issue.
• Relevance: Highlight the significance of the problem, its potential impacts, and why addressing it matters to the organization or stakeholders.
• Objectives: Outline the objectives of the project with SMART goals that guide the project's direction and help in measuring its success.  

Some templates, such as a problem statement worksheet, are designed to help you craft an effective statement, while others are suitable for presentations or reports to stakeholders. For some helpful options, see this collection of free  problem statement slide templates .

Related Problem-Solving Templates

Fully understanding a problem and finding effective solutions requires in-depth analysis. Here is a list of problem-solving templates that can help with that process:

Fishbone Diagram Template

A  fishbone diagram template organizes the causes of a problem into categories, enabling teams to identify, analyze, and address root causes by branching out possible contributing factors from a central problem statement.

8D Report Template

An  8D report template guides teams through a structured eight-step process to identify, correct, and eliminate recurring problems. This problem-solving approach emphasizes root cause analysis and long-term solutions.

A3 Template

An  A3 template offers a concise framework for problem solving, encouraging teams to identify issues, find root causes, and develop solutions on a single A3-sized sheet of paper for clarity and efficiency.

Simple Root Cause Analysis Template

Use our  simple root cause analysis template to map out symptoms, effects, causes, and suggested solutions in a color-coded spreadsheet. Each section includes important details, such as urgency, risks, and success criteria for a systematic approach to analyzing problems.

DMAIC Root Cause Analysis Template

A  DMAIC analysis template outlines a structured, five-phase approach to problem solving

— define, measure, analyze, improve, control — guiding teams through a detailed process to identify problems, analyze causes, and improve processes.

For more problem-solving templates, see this collection of free  root cause analysis templates and  Lean Six Sigma templates .

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A3 Problem Solving Template

A3 thinking is a logical and structured approach to problem solving adopted by Lean organizations around the world. It can be used for most kinds of problems and in any part of the business. This A3 template uses a four stages model that is based on the PDCA management philosophy. It makes the problem-solving progress visible to the entire team while allowing the lessons to be learned by others.

This template is a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that you can use and modify to meet your specific requirements. For example, you may expand the implementation or follow-up plans by increasing the number of rows. The template is available in two variations: a user-friendly straightforward version, and a more detailed one that requires providing in-depth information.

A3 Template (32 KB)

A3 Template – Simple (216 KB)

A3 Template – Detailed (340 KB)

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10 Free Problem Statement Templates in Word & ClickUp

Praburam Srinivasan

Growth Marketing Manager

June 17, 2024

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No matter what your position title is, solving problems is likely part of your job description. From project managers to IT team leads to administrative agents at government organizations, we all have to address issues that threaten to derail our objectives.

One of the best ways to achieve success is to have a process in place to identify and respond to potential risks. Many business owners and managers choose problem statements as an effective option. These tools highlight existing problems, offer context, and are designed to generate discussion for solutions.

Here, we’ll explain what problem statement templates do and discuss when to use them. Plus, we’ll show you what to look for when choosing one and share 10 free problem statement templates to use in ClickUp and Word. 👀

• What is a Problem Statement Template? 
• What Makes a Good Problem Statement Template? 

1. ClickUp Customer Problem Statement Template

2. clickup root cause analysis template, 3. clickup a3 action plan template, 4. clickup remediation action plan template, 5. clickup after action report template, 6. clickup report work incident template, 7. clickup incident response report template, 8. clickup it incident report template, 9. word problem statement template by sample.net.

• 10. Google Docs Research Problem Statement Template by Template.net

What is a Problem Statement Template?

A problem statement is a project management tool that describes an existing issue that needs to be solved. It explains the current status, lays out a desired solution, and analyzes the scope of the process required to reach the end goal.

It’s a process tool that encourages creativity when developing potential solutions to issues, rather than highlighting a specific solution.

A problem statement template makes it easier to compile the necessary information and present it to relevant team members. That way everyone on the project knows the goal and can play a part in creating a road map to solve the problem. 💡

Here are four key elements of a problem statement:

• Current status: Briefly explain the current problem as succinctly as possible and outline a statement of work blueprint
• Ideal goal: What would the situation look like without the existing problem? Describe what your end goal is in finding a viable solution
• The reason it matters: Analyze how the problem affects different team members and the company goals . Also, determine the consequences of not addressing the problem
• Proposal: A problem statement doesn’t have to list solutions. Instead, focus on providing context for research so the team can develop answers creatively

What Makes a Good Problem Statement Template?

Not all problem statement templates are created equal. You want to choose one that briefly explains the problem, highlights the end goal, and offers room for creative discussion.

A good problem statement template will:

• Start with a goal: Give your team an objective to aim for. Highlight multiple outcomes and provide context for what an ideal solution will be using an effective problem statement template
• Explain the specific problem and current state : A good problem-solving template will highlight how the issue prevents you from reaching the stated objective
• Identify knowledge gaps: You can’t find a solution if you don’t have all the relevant data. Use the template to describe what information you’re missing and what data you need to come up with possible solutions
• Avoid proposing a specific solution: The goal here is to generate ideas and creative discussion. There’s more than one solution to a problem, so instead of laying out one solution, offer a framework for coming up with answers and ideas

10 Problem Statement Templates to Use in 2024

Problem statements take time to draft, especially if you’re using them repeatedly as part of your workflows. To cut down on time creating these useful documents, turn to problem statement templates.

These handy tools make it easy to outline the problem and turn it into actionable insights while getting input from your team.

Ready to start improving your processes? We’ve gathered 10 of the best problem statement templates to streamline how you respond and adapt to issues. From incident reports and remediation plans to addressing customer problems, you’ll find what you need to address issues that matter at your company.

Here are the best problem statement templates to use whether you work in IT for the government, run a small product agency, or head human resources at a midsize firm. 🛠️

Use ClickUp’s Customer Problem Statement Template to identify common customer issues to develop products and services that better address you customer’s perspective and needs. Fill in the customer profile section to keep track of different audience needs.

Next, break down what that type of customer wants, and what roadblocks prevent them from their goals during the customer journey . Be sure to give context on why those pain points are present—as well as a proposed solution.

Create new pages for each problem and share each one with the relevant team members. Generate tasks to break down the teamwork based on department, and use the different ClickUp views to keep the team on schedule and monitor results across problem statements. ✅

Before you can lay out a road map to success, you need to anticipate the root cause of a problem. Create a concise problem statement and improve your decision-making process by using the Root Cause Analysis Template from ClickUp .

This problem statement template breaks the bigger problem down into a list of issues, making them easier to assign to various team members. It’s an effective tool for predicting issues and laying the groundwork to prevent them from derailing a project.

Use the nine custom fields to draft problem statement examples and tasks for the team to tackle. Add priority to the most pressing issues, and hop into the Needs Action view to see what’s in progress and to track issues that still need to be addressed.

As a project lead , an action plan is your best friend. It highlights stakeholders, provides a roadmap to success, and offers metrics to gauge performance.

With ClickUp’s A3 Action Plan Template , map out long-term projects while staying organized and improving productivity. When using this problem statement template, start by brainstorming to identify and define your business problem statement.

You can collaborate with other team members through ClickUp Docs . After this step, you can gather data, develop a solution, and then create an action plan.

With the view types in ClickUp’s problem statements, you can monitor goals, timelines, and action steps. Plus, the four custom fields let you manage tasks with breakdowns by department, complexity, progress, and type. 📝

Create an action plan for corrective action using ClickUp’s Remediation Action Plan Template . From ideation and methodology processes to execution and integration in workflows, this template makes it easy to come up with solutions for even the most complex problems.

Use the template to identify remediation steps and to automate assigning the tasks to the relevant team members. Assess risk levels, and add priority tags to tasks that need to be addressed immediately.

Develop an action plan by using custom fields for each risk, and track progress using ClickUp Checklists . These to-do lists populate within the task, making it easy to break down repetitive tasks and incorporate company procedures in your remediation workflows.

Whether you’re midway through a long project or one has just wrapped, you need to assess the process and make adjustments for the future. The After Action Report Template from ClickUp is useful in determining what went well, deciding what needs improvement, and generating new workflows to streamline the process.

This simple one-page template highlights project participants, the basics of the project, the project scope, and results based on project data.

Incorporate this template into your workflows as part of a review step. The template is an excellent tool when preparing for employee reviews since it lists the actions they took and documents the overall team workflow. Use this tool to evaluate how well your workflows performed and if anything broke down during the process.

The ClickUp After Action Report Template also helps you celebrate team success. While it’s easy to focus on what went wrong, this template highlights things that went well and team members that performed .

You can emphasize areas where employees avoided budget issues, overcame resource management issues, and adjusted their workflows to keep the project on track. 🌻

One of the biggest project management challenges is managing safety and correctly recording workplace incidents. With ClickUp’s Report Work Incident Template , you can gather incident reports and compile mitigation procedures in one easy-to-access space.

In the task card, collect information about a specific incident, and choose from 13 custom fields—including basics like the date of the incident, parties involved, and location. If the local authorities were involved, you can add information on officer contact information and police report filing details.

In addition to recording the pertinent information, you can suggest a corrective action to improve the processes and prevent a repeat incident.

This template also features seven different view types, so you can get the information you need at a glance. For example, the Incident Report Summary view is excellent for getting a quick overview of what occurred.

The Progress Board and Reports views keep you on top of solutions and how things are getting worked out.

With the Incident Response Report Template from ClickUp , it’s easier than ever to identify threats, draft steps to address the risk, and develop insights from the incident response process. The template includes a simple step-by-step approach to creating an incident report, including sections for risks, next steps, containment, eradication, recovery, and lessons learned.

With this template, report existing incidents, track proposed solutions, and gather intel so that you can adjust your procedures to better address future incidents. Plus, with its five custom fields, you can easily track supporting documents and keep an audit trail of who created, approved, or reviewed an incident report.

The documentation is also invaluable when responding to legal issues. 👩🏿‍⚖️

Whether you work in product management or lead an IT team, you know how important it is to stay on top of risks. With ClickUp’s IT Incident Report Template , you can easily track bugs and software issues that affect the performance of your IT system.

The 14 custom fields offer a high degree of personalization. That means that you can truly leverage this template to meet your specific company needs.

When using this template, get insight into the IT threat by filling out the basics of the problem, including affected software systems, platforms, and build versions. Next, highlight the severity of each incident and explain the reasons for the incident as well as the impact.

Finally, lay out a path for solutions, and use the data gathered to inform your incident management process.

Problem statements are a great way to generate new ideas, support a creative-thinking process, and get buy-in from various team members in different departments.

This Problem Statement Template from Sample.Net is compatible with MS Word, Google Docs, and Powerpoint. It features a one-page layout explaining the existing problem, a description of the issue, risks, and ideas for solutions.

Use this template to design thinking processes and creatively brainstorm solutions with your team. Each person can share their specific point of view as you work together to develop solutions to the issue and hand. 🏆

10. Google Docs Research Problem Solving Template by Template.net

This simple Research Problem Statement Template makes it easy to draft a quick breakdown of an existing issue and offers support for coming up with solutions. It’s available as a Google Doc, Apple Pages, or MS Word file.

Save time formatting and use this template to quickly fill out the sections for the description, risks, and solution for your problem statement examples.

The template features branding customization in such a way that you can add a company logo and contact information if you’re sharing this document with an outside agency that’s supporting your resolution process. Change the color scheme and font style to match other company documentation and to meet branding standards.

Solve Problems Fast and Effectively With ClickUp

With these problem statement templates, you’re well on your way to being a more effective leader and employee. From reporting incidents and tracking IT issues to generating discussions on how to solve common customer problems, these templates are sure to make your work life easier.

Try ClickUp today to create a problem statement that propels your business forward and builds the basis for better products and services. Browse hundreds of free templates to improve your project management style, assist with incident reporting and track performance on all of your objectives. ✨

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Problem Solving Worksheets

Customize problem solving worksheets.

What is Problem Solving?

It is the cognitive process of identifying, analyzing, and finding solutions to challenges or issues. It involves using logical and creative thinking to address obstacles that occur, make decisions, and achieve goals. Consider the five problem-solving steps: identifying the problem, generating possible solutions, evaluating options, selecting the best solution, and implementing it. Understanding the steps is crucial for navigating complex challenges with clarity and efficiency.

What are Problem Solving Worksheets?

These worksheets are structured in such a way that encourages solution-based thinking. Engaging in interactive problem-solving activities can help develop critical thinking skills and creative approaches to overcoming obstacles. While these skills are used in a variety of aspects of life, our worksheets focus on problem solving in mathematics. Printable worksheets provide practice for any child who is learning to master new skills they are taught in class. They are perfect for any level, and can be applied to any type of mathematical problem or unit of study.

Why are They Important and How are They Best Used?

They are great for ensuring that students practice what they have yet to master, since they can be customized by the teacher to meet the class and individual needs. They can be used to practice all kinds of word problems involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and so much more.

In a world where challenges are inevitable, the ability to tackle problems effectively is a valuable skill that can be applied across all subjects and age groups. Problem-solving skills are the generator of success. They empower individuals to navigate complex situations, identify triggers, and develop plans to overcome obstacles. From the classroom to the boardroom, these skills are in high demand.

Tailoring Problem-Solving Worksheets for Different Subjects

Mathematics.

Math problem-solving worksheets can be a playground for nurturing critical thinking. Through word problem worksheets, students not only practice calculations but also apply math concepts to real-world scenarios.

Scientific problem-solving worksheets ignite curiosity. They prompt students to hypothesize, design experiments, collect data, and draw conclusions, fostering a scientific mindset.

Language Arts

Language skills and critical thinking intertwine in language arts problem-solving worksheets. Analyzing literature, engaging in creative writing prompts, and correcting grammar offer a holistic approach.

Social Studies

History comes to life through problem-solving worksheets. Encourage students to ponder over historical dilemmas and global challenges, nurturing their ability to think beyond the surface.

Math Worksheet Activity Ideas

• "Math Detective" Challenge: Create a set of worksheets featuring a fictional mystery storyline. Each worksheet presents a clue that requires students to solve a math problem to unveil the next piece of the puzzle. This engaging activity encourages critical and sequential thinking.
• "Math Menu" Project: Design a menu-style worksheet with various math problems categorized by difficulty levels. Allow students to choose a certain number of problems from each category to complete, giving them autonomy and catering to their individual skill levels.
• "Design Your Dream House" Activity: Provide a worksheet that guides students through designing their dream house layout. They need to calculate room dimensions, total area, and even budget constraints. This hands-on activity integrates math into real-life scenarios.
• "Math Art Gallery" Exhibition: Assign each student a famous artwork and create a worksheet that involves geometric calculations related to the art's dimensions and shapes. Students can then present their findings in a "Math Art Gallery" exhibition.
• "Math in the News" Analysis: Collect recent news articles that involve math-related concepts, such as statistics, percentages, or data analysis. Provide worksheets that require students to analyze the math behind the news and discuss its implications.
• "Budgeting for Vacation" Project: Design a project-based worksheet where students plan a vacation, considering expenses like transportation, accommodations, and activities. They must budget and calculate costs while staying within a specified budget.
• "Math Around the World" Exploration: Create a worksheet that presents math problems related to different countries' cultures, currencies, and measurements. Students solve problems like converting currencies or calculating time zone differences.
• "Mathopoly" Board Game: Design a problem-solving board game where players move through spaces by solving math problems. This interactive approach adds an element of fun while reinforcing math skills.
• "Math Olympiad Simulation" Practice: Prepare a set of challenging math problems similar to those in Math Olympiad competitions. Have students work on these problems individually or in teams to sharpen their skills.
• "Math Interview" Project: Assign each student a famous mathematician or scientist and provide a worksheet that guides them to research and create interview-style questions. This encourages exploration of math history and its relevance.
• "Math Escape Room" Challenge: Develop a series of interconnected math problems that lead students through a virtual "escape room." They must solve each problem correctly to advance to the next step and eventually "escape."
• "Data Analysis Report" Assignment: Provide students with a dataset related to a topic of interest, such as sports statistics or environmental data. They must analyze the data, create graphs, and present their findings in a structured report.
• "Math and Music Fusion" Project: Combine math with music by providing a worksheet that explores concepts like rhythm, frequency, and ratios in music. Students can calculate beats per minute, analyze musical patterns, and even compose their own melodies.
• "Math Recipe Creation" Challenge: Ask students to create a new recipe by adjusting ingredient quantities based on serving sizes. They must calculate ratios, proportions, and conversions to ensure the recipe's success.

Designing Effective Problem-Solving Worksheets

Creating successful problem-solving worksheets involves careful planning. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Define the Learning Objective: Clarify the specific mathematical concept you want to reinforce with the worksheet. Outline the steps involved and determine how this worksheet will contribute to improving their skills.
• Select a Problem Type: Choose a math problem type that aligns with the learning objective. It could involve algebraic equations, geometry calculations, or even practical scenarios related to everyday life.
• Structure the Steps: Break down the problem-solving process into logical steps. Ensure that each step reflects the problem solving steps you want students to follow, such as understanding the problem, planning, solving, and verifying.
• Incorporate Interactive Elements: Integrate interactive elements like multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blanks, or even drawing areas to encourage problem solving exercises within the worksheet.
• Utilize Graphic Organizers: Introduce a visual problem solving graphic organizer to help students map out their thinking. This can include spaces for writing down given information, variables, and equations.
• Provide a Problem Solving Template: Offer a structured template that guides students through the problem-solving process. Include prompts and placeholders for each step to provide clear direction.
• Encourage Exploration: Inspire students to explore different types of techniques to arrive at solutions. Encourage them to think critically and try various strategies before settling on an approach.

By incorporating these elements, you can create a comprehensive problem solving worksheet for kids that not only teaches mathematical concepts but also equips them with transferable skills. Whether you're focusing on basic arithmetic or more advanced mathematical principles, this approach ensures an engaging and educational experience for young learners.

More Storyboardthat Resources and Free Printables

• Multiplication Worksheets
• Subtraction Worksheets
• Game Worksheets
• Task Card Maker

How to Make a Problem Solving Worksheet

Choose one of the premade templates.

We have lots of templates to choose from. Take a look at our example for inspiration!

Click on “Copy Template”

Once you do this, you will be directed to the storyboard creator.

Give Your Worksheet a Name!

Be sure to call it something related to the topic so that you can easily find it in the future.

Edit Your Worksheet

This is where you will include directions, specific images, and make any aesthetic changes that you would like. The options are endless!

Click "Save and Exit"

When you are finished, click this button in the lower right hand corner to exit your storyboard.

From here you can print, download as a PDF, attach it to an assignment and use it digitally, and more!

Happy Creating!

Frequently Asked Questions About Problem Solving Worksheets

How can math problem-solving worksheets show students how to improve problem-solving skills.

They provide structured exercises that guide students through real-world scenarios. By actively engaging in these worksheets and activities, children can practice the problem solving process, enhancing their critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities.

What strategies can I use to teach problem-solving skills using math worksheets?

Incorporate helpful math problem solving worksheets for kids into your lessons. Support and encourage students to work through the problem-solving steps: understanding the problem, devising strategies, making calculations, and verifying their solutions. Provide examples, guidance, and feedback to nurture their problem-solving skills.

How can I ensure that students grasp the problem-solving process effectively?

Provide clear instructions in your math problem-solving worksheets that guide students through each step of the process. Offer examples and encourage them to discuss their approaches. By nurturing a supportive and collaborative environment, you can help both younger kids and older kids build confidence in their problem solving skills.

What are specific examples of how to teach problem-solving skills in math using pre-answered solution worksheets?

Teaching problem-solving skills in math using pre-answered solution worksheets can be exemplified through scenarios like quadratic equations. Present the class with a quadratic equation and a pre-answered solution that breaks down the steps of factoring or using the quadratic formula. This guides them to understand the process, identify key components, and apply appropriate methods. Similarly, for geometry, offer a challenging problem involving angles or area calculations, along with a pre-answered solution that demonstrates the application of relevant geometric principles. As students work through the problem and compare their reasoning with the pre-answered solution, they grasp problem-solving strategies, logical sequences, and the importance of meticulous calculations. In both cases, these worksheets instill confidence, reinforce systematic approaches, and enhance students' problem-solving skills while navigating mathematical complexities.

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Forms and Templates

Downloads for A3 problem solving, standard work , project management, and value stream mapping .

Problem Solving Templates

A3 Action Plan Form (from Getting the Right Things Done)

• The action plan template helps define the who, what, when, where, and how of a plan on one page.
• Helps track progress and highlight problems so action can be taken.

A3 Status Review Form (from Getting the Right Things Done)

• Top box provides an overview with respect to our critical end-of-pipe metrics.
• Second box provides an overview of activities, and usually reflects what’s been prescribed on the action plan of the right side of the strategy A3.

A3 Strategy Form (from Getting the Right Things Done)

• A strategy A3 is a one-page storyboard on 11-inch by 17-inch paper that helps tell the strategy “story.”
• Logic flows from top left to bottom right, and each box leads to the next one.

Detailed A3 Template (from Managing to Learn)

• Print this A3 template out to remind you of each section of the problem-solving A3 as you are creating your own.

PDSA A3 Template (from On the Mend)

• A3 Template, in Excel, following the PDSA cycle.

Problem Definition Worksheet

• This worksheet can help you breakdown the problem into a clearly defined gap as well as see how the problem aligns to the needs of the business or your True North purpose.

Root Cause Template

• This template gives you space to record the problem as well as the direct causes and underlying causes.

Four Types of Problems

Art Smalley

Managing to Learn: Using the A3 management process

Perfecting Patient Journeys

Beau Keyte , Tom Shuker and Judy Worth

Getting the Right Things Done

Pascal Dennis

Standard Work Templates

Standard Work Operator Balance Chart (OBC)

• The operator balance chart helps create continuous flow in a multi-step, multi-operator process by distributing operator work elements in relation to takt time.

Standard Work Process Study Sheet

• The Process Study Sheet is used to define and record the time for work elements in a process.

Standard Work Production Analysis Board

• A Production Analysis Board is a display that must be located at the exit of the cell (or the line) to show actual performance compared with planned performance on an hourly basis.

Standard Work Skills Training Matrix

• The Skills Training Matrix shows the required and attained skills of every operator.
• The training schedule also should be shown.

Standardized Work Chart

• The standardized work chart shows operator movement and material location in relation to the machine and overall process layout.
• It should show takt time, work sequence, and standard WIP.

Standardized Work Combination Table

• The standardized work combination table shows the combination of manual work time, walk time, and machine processing time for each operation in a production sequence.
• This form is a more precise process design tool than the Operator Balance Chart.
• It can be very helpful to identify the waste of waiting and overburden, and to confirm standard.

Standardized Work Job Instruction Sheet

• The job instruction sheet is used to train new operations.
• It lists the steps of the job, detailing any special knack that may be required to perform the job safely with utmost quality and efficiency.
• It can also be useful for experienced operators to reconfirm the right operations.

Standardized Work Process Capacity Sheet

• The Process Capacity Chart is used to calculate the capacity of each machine to confirm true capacity and to identify and eliminate bottlenecks.
• Processing capacity per shift will be calculated from the available production time, completion time, and tool-change time (and other factors as necessary) for each work piece.

Waste Walk Template (from Perfecting Patient Journeys)

• Taking a “waste walk” is one way to make the waste visible again.
• A waste walk is simply a planned visit to where work is being performed to observe what’s happening and to note the waste. It differs from go-see activities in that you are specifically looking for waste.

Kaizen Express

Toshiko Narusawa and John Shook

Lean Lexicon 5th Edition

Lean Enterprise Institute

Training Within Industry (TWI) Templates and Downloads

8-step TWI problem solving card - as presented by IBM

• 8-steps to problem solving handy pocket card printable.

Solving Problems with TWI

• Solving problems with TWI deployment graphic.

Template of Job Breakdown Sheet

• Job breakdown sheets are created to list the steps and highlight the main factors or key points that go into completing a job.
• It also provides reasons for these key points.

TWI Job Instruction Card

• TWI Job Instruction card in a handy pocket printable.

TWI Job Methods Card

• TWI Job Methods Card in a handy pocket printable.

TWI Job Relations Card

• TWI Job Relations Card in a handy pocket printable.

Lean Solutions

James (Jim) Womack, PhD and Dan Jones

Lean Thinking, 2nd Edition

Project Management Templates

Master Schedule and Action Plan Template for One Goal (from Perfecting Patient Journeys)

• Use this template in your project tracking center so you can track both goals and action items on the same form.

End of Project Review Template (from Perfecting Patient Journeys)

• The following template will help you capture your end-of-project reflections and make decisions about what to do next.

Master Schedule Template (from Perfecting Patient Journeys)

• This template will help you answer this question by letting you include the project goals with space to indicate whether each goal is on track as originally planned and whether the scheduled progress review has taken place.

Team Board Form (from Getting the Right Things Done)

• A team board is a window on both routine and improvement work.
• The board on this template addresses both daily production and strategic issues, and is organized according to SQDCM—safety, quality, delivery, cost, and morale.

Value Proposition Template (from Perfecting Patient Journeys)

• Align the stakeholders around what will be included in addressing the problem,
• Identify the stakeholders who will be added to the project team and actively engaged in creating the current- and future-state value-stream maps,
• Identify additional stakeholders necessary to drive the implementation of the future state,
• Serve as an agreement—a proof of consensus—on the specific problem to be solved, and with the problem statement serve as authorization for the entire project.

Action Planning Template (from Perfecting Patient Journeys)

• Identify the specific changes that need to be made and translate those changes into clearly stated goals and actions (i.e., the means) to achieve those goals.
• Identify the specific methods and action steps you think will help you achieve the goals. These action steps and targets constitute the action plan to achieve a specific goal.

Value-Stream Mapping Templates

Value-stream Mapping Icons for Excel

• At the request of some of our readers we have posted the most commonly used mapping icons so that they can be downloaded for Excel spreadsheets.

Learning to See

Mike Rother and John Shook

VSM Getting Started Set

Lean Enterprise Institute , Mike Rother and John Shook

Mapping to See: Value-Stream Improvement Workshop

Beau Keyte , Jim Luckman , Kirk Paluska , Guy Parsons , John Shook , Tom Shuker and David Verble

Improvement Kata / Coaching Kata

Improvement Kata Learner's Storyboard

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