Science, Tech, Math › Science Chemistry Word Problem Strategy Share Flipboard Email Print FatCamera/Getty Images Science Chemistry Basics Chemical Laws Molecules Periodic Table Projects & Experiments Scientific Method Biochemistry Physical Chemistry Medical Chemistry Chemistry In Everyday Life Famous Chemists Activities for Kids Abbreviations & Acronyms Biology Physics Geology Astronomy Weather & Climate By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Chemistry Expert Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels. our editorial process Facebook Facebook Twitter Twitter Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Updated March 10, 2019 Many problems in chemistry and other sciences are presented as word problems. Word problems are as easy to solve as numerical problems once you understand how to approach them. How to Solve Chemistry Word Problems Before you break out your calculator, read the problem all the way through. Make sure you understand what the question is asking.Write down all of the information you have been given. Keep in mind, you may be given more facts than you need to use in order to perform the calculation.Write down the equation or equations you need to use in order to solve the problem.Before you plug the numbers into the equations, check the units required for the equations. You may need to perform unit conversions before you can apply the equations.Once you are certain your units are in agreement, plug the numbers into the equation and get your answer.Ask yourself whether the answer seems reasonable. For example, if you are calculating the mass of a beaker and you end up with an answer in kilograms, you can be pretty certain you made an error in a conversion or calculation.