Overview

Word Problems

Two simple words that evoke more fear and loathing than most other math concepts or question types combined.

When the subject of word problems arises, many students envision the following nightmare:

...or something along these lines.

The good news is that you will not see anything this ugly. SHSAT word problems are pretty straightforward. Generally, all you have
to do is translate the prose to math and solve.

The bad news is that you can expect to see a lot of word problems on the test. You just have to practice and get comfortable with
them. Keep in mind that, while word problems are generally algebra problems, they can contain other math concepts.

Two trains are loaded with equal amounts of rock salt and ball bearings. Train A leaves Frogboro at 10:00 AM carrying 62

passengers. Train B leaves Toadville at 11:30 AM carrying 104 passengers. If Train A is traveling at a speed of 85 mph and makes

4 stops and Train B is traveling at an average speed of 86 mph and makes 3 stops and the trains both arrive at Lizard Hollow at

4:30 PM, what is the average weight of the passengers on Train B?