Consecutive integers are n, n + 1, n + 2, and so on. Consecutive evens or odds go up by 2: n, n + 2, n + 4. Three consecutive integers that sum to 36 are 11, 12, and 13, because 3n + 3 = 36. Integers as a topic are in integers on ACT Math.
Write the list, then the equation
Let the first be n. Translate the sentence. “The smallest of three consecutive odds” is n, then n + 2 and n + 4. Odd and even rules that help you check the list are in odd, even, positive, and negative.
Remainders show up when consecutive numbers wrap around a divisor, in remainders. Word problems that hide the list in a sentence are in setting up word problems.
The bottom line
Name the first integer, count by 1 or by 2, then write one equation from the sum or the product.
Start practicing
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