Interpret limits and feasible answers
An inequality describes a set of possible values. The context decides whether a boundary or whole-number answer is allowed.
Make it repeatable
- Translate phrases such as “at most” and “at least.”
- Solve as an equation first, then preserve the inequality direction.
- Reverse the sign when multiplying or dividing by a negative.
- Check whole-number and contextual restrictions.
Watch the method in action
Tickets cost 7 dollars each and you have at most 30 dollars. How many whole tickets can you buy?
- Write 7t ≤ 30.
- Divide by 7 to get t ≤ 30/7.
- Since t is a whole number, the maximum is 4.
Four tickets cost 28 dollars; five would exceed the limit.
Try it yourself
What is the maximum number?
Apply the method to real questions
Start with guided questions and feedback. Then take a fresh independent set without hints. Reach at least 80% on that set to record this lesson.
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