Word problems are often the most dreaded part of math class. Why? Because they test reading comprehension and mathematical reasoning at the same time. The CUBES method gives students a reliable checklist to break down any story problem into actionable steps.

The CUBES Checklist

  • C — Circle the key numbers and units (e.g., 12 apples, 3 baskets).
  • U — Underline the question (What are you actually being asked to find?).
  • B — Box math action clue words (in all, remaining, divided equally, per hour).
  • E — Evaluate and Eliminate extra information that isn't needed.
  • S — Solve and Check: Does your answer make logical sense?

Sample Problem Walkthrough

"Sarah baked 36 chocolate chip cookies on Tuesday. Her brother ate 4 cookies. On Wednesday, she shared the remaining cookies equally among 8 friends. How many cookies did each friend receive?"

  • Circle: 36 cookies, 4 cookies, 8 friends. (Tuesday and Wednesday are irrelevant details!)
  • Underline: "How many cookies did each friend receive?"
  • Box: "ate" (means subtract), "remaining", "shared equally" (means divide).
  • Solve:
    1. Remaining cookies: 36 - 4 = 32.
    2. Share equally: 32 ÷ 8 = 4.
  • Check: 4 cookies per friend is reasonable. Done!