A is twice as old as B was two years ago. The difference between their present ages is 2 years. Find A’s present age (in years).

Introduction / Context:
Mixing a present-time difference with a past-time multiplicative relation yields a solvable two-equation system in present ages A and B.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A = 2(B − 2)
• A − B = 2

Concept / Approach:
Substitute the expression for A from the first equation into the second and solve for B; then recover A.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
B two years ago = 4; 2 × 4 = 8 = A now; and A − B = 2 holds (8 − 6).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
12, 14, 18 violate either the difference or the past-time doubling relation.

Common Pitfalls:
Doubling B now instead of B two years ago, or misapplying the 2-year difference sign.

Final Answer:
8 years.