# Thread: Year 6 Problem solving

1. ## Year 6 Problem solving

Hi,

I can't seem to figure out this problem, which is only in a Year 6 text book:

"If i obtain the quotient of 72 and 18 then add 14 minus 6, my answer is..."

Thank you in advance.

2. If you're confused split it up step by step.

Step 1:

Quotient of 72 and 18 is 72 / 18 = 4

Step 2:

Add 14 to previous result: 4 + 14 = 18

Step 3:

Minus 6 from previous result: 18 - 6 = 12

3. The reason i was getting confused is because i was thinking you can divide any number for example you divide 216 by 3 you get the quotient 72. But you can make unlimited number of combinations like that.

I don't know what in question itself gave you the clue to divide 72 by 18

4. Oh, I guess the misunderstanding comes from the word quotient.

The quotient of 72 and 18, by definition is what remains after you divide 72 by 18.

Your confusion is in thinking that 72 is the quotient, when in fact it is 4. Remember, it asks for "the quotient of", not stating "the quotient is"

5. That makes perfect sense. Thank you once again for the clarification