Answer:
28
Explanation:
Simple solution:
Each one was 5 years younger 5 years ago, so subtract 5 from 38 for each one.
38 - 5 - 5 = 28
The sum of their ages was 28.
Algebra solution:
Kate is x years old now.
Gift is y years old now.
The sum of their ages now is x + y.
The sum of their ages is 38, so x + y = 38.
5 years ago:
Kate was x - 5 years old.
Gift was y - 5 years old.
The sum of their ages 5 years ago was x - 5 + y - 5 = x + y - 10.
Substitute 38 for x + y.
The sum of their ages was 38 - 10 = 28