Math Word Problems Demystified - A Self Teaching Guide

LESSON 13 Solving Distance Problems

The basic formula for solving distance problems is distance¼ratetime
orD¼RT. For example, if an automobile travels at 30 miles per hour for
2 hours, then the distance isD¼RTor 30 2 ¼60 miles.
Distance problems usually involve two vehicles (i.e., automobiles, trains,
bicycles, etc.) either traveling in the same direction or in opposite directions,
or one vehicle making a round trip. The strategy for solving distance
problems is

1. Draw a diagram of the situation.


2. Set up a table as shown.
   Rate  Time ¼ Distance

First vehicle

Second vehicle

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