Let’s assume the present age of Shikha be x years
So, 8 years later, age of her = (x + 8) years
Five years ago, her age = (x – 5) years
Given relationship between the ages can be expressed as:
(x – 5)(x +8) = 30
x2 + 8x – 5x – 40 = 30
x2 + 3x – 40 – 30 = 0
x2 + 3x – 70 = 0 [By factorisation method]
x(x – 7) + 10(x – 7) = 0
(x – 7)(x + 10) = 0
x = 7 or x = -10 (neglected)
Since, the age can never be negative.
Therefore, the present age of Shikha is 7 years.