Differentiating Terminology

[baily106]

Hello,

I recently read a math problem that stated the area of Rectangle A was "3 units greater" than the area of Rectangle B. I understood this to mean multiply by 3 whereas the explanation indicated simply adding 3. Does "X units greater" and "X units less" always indicate addition and subtraction? Is there some sort of cheat sheet or website that indicates similar terminology so when know what means addition, subtraction, multiplication and division?

Thanks.

[enphilus]

Yes, the explanation is right. If I say I have 5 pencils, and Joan has 3 pencils more, it simply means that Joan has 8 pencils. So, just add.

As in your case, if it had said "X was 3 times greater", then you would have to multiply by 3.

[tommywallach]

Hey Baily,

A "unit" is a thing. It doesn't have any connection to "multiple." It's not about a cheat sheet, unfortunately, but just about what the words mean. However, there aren't that many variations, so you should be fine as long as you practice enough.

-t

[baily106]

Great; thank you both!

[tommywallach]

Happy to help!

-t