The sum of two numbers is 66. The larger number is three less than twice the smaller number.
Find the numbers.

Question

The sum of two numbers is 66. The larger number is three less than twice the smaller number. 
Find the numbers.

anonymous · Answer

x = Small Number
y = Large Number
By the question, y = 2x-3

So: x+y=66

Substitute Y for 2x-3...
$$x+(2x-3)=66$$
and solve for x:
$$3x - 3 = 66$$
$$3x=69$$
$$x = 23$$
23 is your small number, now plus that back in to the large number question (y).
$$y=2(23)-3=43$$
Small Number: 23    Large Number: 43

Check if needed: 43+23=66