Write a system of equations where $n$ represents number of nickels and $q$ is number of quarters.

$n + q = 14$

$0.05n + 0.25q = 2.90$

Use the substitution method explained in the Math Notes box in Lesson 2.1.3 to solve for $n$ or $q$. Isolate $n$ or $q$ in the equation $n + q = 14$.

$n=3\; \text{nickels}$, $q = 11\; \text{quarters}$