Age Word Problems

Age problems are algebra word problems that deal with the ages of people currently, in the past or in the future.

If the problem involves a single person, then it is similar to an Integer Problem. Read the problem carefully to determine the relationship between the numbers. This is shown in the following example involving a single person.

If the age problem involves the ages of two or more people then using a table would be a good idea. A table will help you to organize the information and to write the equations. This is shown in the age problems: examples involving more than one person.

Age Problems Involving A Single Person

Example 1:

Five years ago, John’s age was half of the age he will be in 8 years. How old is he now?

Solution:

Step 1: Let x be John’s age now. Look at the question and put the relevant expressions above it.

Step 2: Write out the equation.

Isolate variable x

Answer: John is now 18 years old.

The following video shows more examples of age word problems

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