Word problems can get very confusing. The best tactic for these is to try to keep focus throughout the whole problem. This problem requires strict algebra and a little bit of thinking. Also, when you extract all the important information, it might seem easier to solve with less to look at. Subtract the empty cups from the total cups, and you'll have the cups with either sugar or milk in them. Then by thinking a little bit, you'll be able to figure out that 5 cups have both sugar and milk.
Word problems can get very confusing. The best tactic for these is to try to keep focus throughout the whole problem. This problem requires strict algebra and a little bit of thinking. Also, when you extract all the important information, it might seem easier to solve with less to look at. Subtract the empty cups from the total cups, and you'll have the cups with either sugar or milk in them. Then by thinking a little bit, you'll be able to figure out that 5 cups have both sugar and milk.
