The sum of three numbers is 81. the second number is 4 times the first. the third number is 3 more than the first. what are the three numbers?

Lets try it this way. 3 numbers sum is equal to 81, thus A+B+C = 81. Now lets go to the next portion of the question.

The second number is 4 times the first.

B = 4A

The third number is 3 more than the first

C = 3+A

since we have everything in terms of A lets solve for A.

A + 4A + (3+A) = 81

do some simple math to find A.

A+4A + 3 + A = 81.

6A + 3 = 81

6A = 81 - 3

6A = 78

A = 13

Now we got A lets solve for B and C.

B = 4A

B = 4 (13)

B = 52

C = 3+A

C = 3+13

C = 16

Now lets check our answer

A+B+C = 81

13+52+16 = 81