Word Problem Agony-->All Math Tutors

Dear Math Teachers/Tutors:

I can solve math problems AFTER it is explained to me. My problem comes when facing word problems in standardized exams where time is limited. I often use a GED MATH or SAT math book seeking word problems JUST for practice. I DARE NOT answer the questions in the time requested. I can find the answers at my own pace (depending on the difficulty of the problem).

WHAT ABOUT really complicated mixture problems or trigonometry word problems or geometry word problems? There are questions that simple require a student to have a strong math background, right? Honestly, I can answer EVERY math word problem (in my summer class) correctly on a given test but solely based on memory NOT because I knew what I was doing.

I recall solving complicated trigonometry word problems during the present summer course but ONLY because our teacher gave similar questions in the classroom. On the actual test, he simply gave the SAME word problems by CHANGING the numbers.

I know to let a variable, say x, represent what I am seeking but where do I go from there? I have such a hard time creating equations needed to solve word problems. I know how to solve d = rt but when given in complicated word problem form, I have no idea how to set up the proper equation that will guide me to simply SOLVE FOR X. Any input in this regard would be greatly appreciated.