One less than half a number is 12. What is the number

To find this, turn the word question into an equation.

"One less than" means - 1, which is 1 being subtracted from something.

"half a number" means 1/2x, since 1/2 is half and x is unknown.

"is 12" means = 12, which is something equals 12.

Putting this in order would be 1/2x, then - 1, then = 12.

As an equation, this is 1/2x - 1 = 12.

So the equation is 1/2x - 1 = 12

Now you must find the number by solving this equation.

1/2x - 1 = 12

First, add 1 to both sides.

12 + 1 = 13

1/2x = 13

Now multiply both sides by 2.

This way, x will be isolated since 1/2x • 2 = 1x, and 1x = x.

13 • 2 = 26

x = 26

The number is 26.