Question

In 5 years’ time, Reshmi will be three times old as she was 9 years ago. How old is she now?

Answer 1

Hint:- We have to only assume the present age of Reshma as variable x. And then form an equation for relation of her age nine years ago and after 5 years. And solving that equation we will get the value of x.

Complete step by step solution:
Let the present age of Reshma be x years.
Now as we know that it is given that after five years Reshma will be three times her age, nine years ago.
So, now let us first, find the age of Reshma after five years and nine years ago.
So, Reshma age after five years must be (x + 5) years.
And the Reshma age nine years ago must be equal to (x – 9) years.
Now according to the question.
(x + 5) = 3(x – 9)
So, now solve the above equation to find the value of x.
x + 5 = 3x – 27
Subtracting x from both the sides of the above equation and adding 27 to both sides of the above equation.
2x = 32
Dividing both sides of the above equation by 2.
x = 16
Hence, the present age of Reshma must be 16 years.

Note:- Whenever we come up with this type of problem then first we have to assume the present age of the person. And then we have to find the age of the person after and before the present age as given in the question (like after 5 years and 9 years ago). And then we have to make an equation for their ages before and after according to the given condition. Now on solving that linear equation we will get the required present age of the person. This will be the easiest and efficient way to find the solution of the problem.