Four teams collect 12 cans each, then recycle 9 cans.
Show answer
39 cans remain.
Free printable worksheet
Multi-Step Word Problems Worksheet
Twelve two- and three-step problems using all four operations.
Elementary MathGrades 3-64 pagesAnswer key included
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What this worksheet includes
- Twelve two- and three-step problems using all four operations.
- 4-page printable PDF with a complete answer key
- Designed for Grades 3-6 elementary math practice
- Available as an immediate free download with no email required
How to use it
Use this multi-step word problems worksheet for guided practice, independent review, homework, tutoring sessions, or a quick skills check. The spacious layout is designed to leave room for students to show their work rather than guess from crowded answer choices.
After students finish, compare their reasoning with the included answer key. When an answer is incorrect, have the student locate the first step where their work changed direction before trying the problem again.
Who this practice is for
This resource is designed for grades 3-6 students working on elementary math. Teachers, tutors, homeschool families, and parents can preview the first page before deciding whether the level and spacing fit the student.
Looking for a broader sequence? Browse all Elementary Math worksheets.
Topic guide
How to approach multi-step word problems
A multi-step word problem requires more than one operation and a plan for the order. Identify what is known, what changes, and what the question asks before calculating.
Write an equation or labeled sequence of operations. Intermediate answers should retain their units because they become inputs for the next step.
Learning objectives
- Choose operations from context
- Organize two or more steps
- Check whether an answer is reasonable
Skills to review first
- Four-operation fluency
- Reading mathematical language
- Estimation
Worked example
Follow the reasoning step by step
Mia buys 3 boxes of 8 markers and gives away 5. How many remain?
- Find the starting total: 3 × 8 = 24 markers.
- Identify that giving away means subtracting.
- Compute 24 − 5 = 19.
- Check that the result is less than the starting total.
Solution: 19 markers.
Try before downloading
Three sample problems
Work each problem, then open the answer to check your result.
A $25 book and three $4 notebooks
Show answer
$37 total
60 students form 5 equal groups; 2 leave each group.
Show answer
10 students remain in each group.
Error check
Common mistakes to watch for
- Using every number without considering its role
- Answering an intermediate question
- Dropping units