<h2>
Converting Words into Equations</h2>
We can convert word problems into equations by translating key terms into operations:
- <em>sum</em> = we add
- <em>difference</em> = we subtract
- <em>twice</em> = multiply by 2
- <em>is</em> = equals
<h2>Solving the Question</h2>
We're given:
- sum of two numbers is 5
- difference between the first number and twice the second number is 29
Let the first number be <em>a</em> and the second number be <em>b.</em>
Translate the words into numbers:
- <u>sum</u> of two numbers <u>is</u> 5

- <u>difference</u> between the first number and <u>twice</u> the second number <u>is</u> 29

Subtract the second equation from the first to isolate <em>b</em>:



Therefore <em>b</em> is -8.
Substitute <em>b</em> back into the first equation to find <em>a</em>:

Therefore, <em>a</em> is 13.
<h2>Answer</h2>
<em>a</em> = 13
<em>b</em> = -8