Numerical expressions are math phrases that include numbers and operations, but do not have an equal sign. They show how to calculate a value, but they are not full equations.
A numerical expression tells what operations to perform, but it does not show the final answer.
To write a numerical expression from a word problem, translate the words into numbers and operations. Look for clues that tell you which operation to use, such as “sum,” “product,” “difference,” or “quotient.”
Always read carefully. The order of operations matters. Use parentheses when an operation must be done first.
The order of operations tells you the correct sequence to solve a numerical expression. This ensures everyone gets the same result.
Parentheses help you control the order. Without them, the expression might mean something different.
Here are examples of how to translate word problems into numerical expressions without solving them:
When you see phrases like “twice,” “more than,” or “less than,” they guide which operation to use and in what order.
After writing a numerical expression, review the word problem to make sure your expression matches what the problem describes.
Try saying the expression aloud. If it matches the words in the problem, your expression is likely correct.