Heads and Feet

Heads and Feet problems are solved by translating the situation into a system of linear equations. Each variable represents the number of a certain type of object. Each aggregate count (like total heads or feet) gives an equation. Solving the system gives the number of each type.

Important properties

• Each type is represented by a variable.

• Each aggregate count gives a linear equation.

• The system usually has as many equations as variables.

• Solutions must make sense in context (e.g., non-negative integers).