How to solve work word problems
Solving work word problem is quite similar to solving distance rate and time word problems.
The basic formula we use to solve work word problems is
[ rate of work ] = [ amount of work done ]
÷ [ time worked
]
Or written as
[ amount of work done ] = [ rate of work ] · [ time worked ]
Depending on the information given in the problems, work word problems fall into
three categories:
1. Absolute rate of work
Example:
Worker A can produce 20 auto parts per hour, while worker B can produce 30
auto parts per hour. How long will it take for both of them, working together,
to produce 1,000 auto parts?
Detailed solution to this problem
Detailed solution to this problem
2. Relative rate of work
Example:
Working alone, worker A can complete a task in 3 hours, worker B can complete
it in 6 hours. How long will it take for both of them, working together, to
complete the task?
Detailed solution to this problem
Detailed solution to this problem
3. Man-hours
Example
If 20 workers can complete a task in 12 hours, how long would it take for 30
workers?
Detailed solution to this problem
Detailed solution to this problem