Algebra Practice Problems

Algebra word problems are the broadest category — any scenario that translates into equations you need to solve. A number is 7 more than twice another number and their sum is 34: find both numbers. A phone plan charges a flat fee plus a per-minute rate: when does it become cheaper than the competitor? These problems span from simple one-variable equations through systems, quadratics, and inequalities. What they all share is the core algebraic skill: reading a situation, assigning variables, writing equations, and solving. If you can do this reliably, every other word problem category becomes easier because the translation step is the hard part — and this is where you practice it most.
Arithmetic Sequence: Collection Fundraiser

Initial collection $5. Each person adds same amount. Find total after the 35th person contributes.

Mars Mission: Astronaut Selection with Constraints

Count ways to assign 12 astronauts to two rockets (3 and 4 people) with 4 experienced required. Combinatorics with constraints.

Basketball Starting Lineup: Combinations Problem

Find number of ways to select 5 starters from 12 players using combinations. C(12,5) formula.

Break-Even Analysis: Cell Phone Plans

Compare two phone plans: 25¢/min vs. $0.95 + 12¢/min. Find when the second plan becomes preferable.

Bus Transportation Optimization

Minimize bus rental cost for 400 students with capacity and driver constraints. Linear programming word problem with practical application.

Combinations & Conditional Probability Problem

Find probability of selecting all Republicans from a mixed group. Master combination counting.

Half-Life Problem: Exponential Decay

Calculate remaining radioactive tin after 50 days using half-life formula with 10-day period.

Locker Problem: Perfect Squares Logic

Classic logic puzzle: which lockers are open after 100 days of toggling? Discover the perfect square connection.

Revenue Optimization: Price Increase Problem

Write a revenue equation and find the price that maximizes amusement park admission revenue.

Inequality Word Problem: Rewards Points

Fatoumata's rewards card problem. Write and solve a linear inequality to find the minimum visits needed for a free movie ticket.