1. The problem is to identify whether a word problem requires finding the Highest Common Multiple (HCM) or the Lowest Common Multiple (LCM). 2. First, understand the definitions: - HCM (more commonly called HCF or GCD) is the greatest number that divides two or more numbers exactly. - LCM is the smallest number that is a multiple of two or more numbers. 3. Key words for HCM (HCF) problems often include: - "Divides exactly" - "Greatest number that divides" - "Common factor" - "Share equally" 4. Key words for LCM problems often include: - "Least number that is divisible by" - "Occurs together" - "Repeat after" - "Same time/event" 5. Example: - If the problem talks about "dividing something into equal parts" or "greatest number that can divide", it is an HCM problem. - If the problem talks about "when two events happen together" or "smallest number of units to cover all", it is an LCM problem. 6. So, look for words like "greatest", "divides", "equal parts" for HCM. Look for words like "least", "multiple", "repeat", "together" for LCM. This approach helps you decide which method to use in word problems.