5th Grade Continental Math | Problems and Solutions Pythagorean. 1) Solve for A: 500,000 ÷ 1,000 = 5,000 ÷ A. This problem can be solved using cross multiplication; however, because the Continental Math contests are limited to 30 minutes, it's important to figure it out quickly. Begin by solving the first equation, 500,000 ÷ 1,000, which equals 500. This can be easily solved in your head.