Writing Expressions from Words

Pre-Algebra · Axiom Academy

EXAMPLE Writing Expressions from Words Learn to translate "five less than twice a number" into an algebraic expression step by step. Translate the phrase "five less than twice a number" into an algebraic expression. Watch the order carefully — "less than" is a trap that reverses the subtraction. Excellent work! You've learned to translate word phrases into algebraic expressions. Remember: Identify key words: "twice" means multiply by 2; "less than" means subtract. Order matters: "A less than B" means B - A , not A - B . Build step by step: translate one part at a time, then combine. Watch for the common mistake: "five less than twice a number" is 2x - 5 , NOT 5 - 2x . Practice this method with similar phrases to master translating words into algebra!

This is the written version of the interactive lesson above. See the full Pre-Algebra course.