Word Problems: Order of Operations - Free Printable

Let's solve the problem step by step and also complete the "Read for Understanding" section.

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Problem Statement:

Mike invests $1300 in a stock.
- In one day, his money doubled.
- The next day he earned $175 and then lost $372.12.
How much are his shares of stock worth?

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Step-by-Step Solution:

#### Step 1: Initial Investment
Mike starts with:
$$
\$1300
$$

#### Step 2: Money Doubled
After one day, his money doubles:
$$
1300 \times 2 = \$2600
$$

#### Step 3: Next Day – Earned $175
He earns $175:
$$
2600 + 175 = \$2775
$$

#### Step 4: Then Lost $372.12
He loses $372.12:
$$
2775 - 372.12 = \$2402.88
$$

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✔ Final Answer:

$$
\boxed{\$2402.88}
$$

So, Mike’s shares of stock are worth $2402.88.

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Now, Fill in the "Read for Understanding" Section:

> 1. Read for Understanding

- Don’t just look at the numbers.
- Be able to understand the word problem.
- Decide on the operation(s) needed.

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Explanation of the Strategy:

When solving word problems:
1. Read carefully — don’t assume or skip details.
2. Identify what is happening — doubling, earning, losing.
3. Perform calculations in order — follow the timeline.
4. Check units and signs — gain (+), loss (−).

This ensures accurate and logical problem-solving.

✔ Final Answer: $2402.88