Question

Paula’s age is 4 times Mary’s present age. In 6 years time, the sum of their ages will be 57 years. Find their present ages.

Answer 1

Let's make the variable P and M.
4M=P
P+6+6+M=57
Let's put the first equation in as Paula's age.
4M+12+M=57
5M+12=57
5M=45
45÷5
9
Mary's present age is 9, so Paula's age is 36.
Let's check the sum of their ages in 6 years.
15+42
57