Problem 499 - Prealgebra

Question

Shopping for an interview Nathan bought a new shirt, tie, and slacks to wear to a job interview. The shirt cost \(\$ 24,\) the tie cost \(\$ 14,\) and the slacks cost \(\$ 38\) . What was Nathan's total cost?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

\$76

Step 1: Identify the Cost of Each Item

First, list out the cost of each item purchased: the shirt cost \(\$24\), the tie cost \(\$14\), and the slacks cost \(\$38\).

Step 2: Add the Costs Together

Next, add the cost of the shirt, tie, and slacks together to find Nathan's total cost: \(\$24 + \$14 + \$38\).

Step 3: Calculate the Sum

Perform the addition: \(24 + 14 + 38 = 76\).

Key Concepts

total_cost_calculation

Calculating the total cost involves adding up all the individual prices of the items Nathan bought. This kind of math problem is straightforward and common in everyday life. To find the total amount Nathan spent, you sum the costs of the shirt, tie, and slacks. First, look at the price of each item. The shirt costs \(\$24\), the tie costs \(\$14\), and the slacks cost \(\$38\). We need to add these numbers together.
When you add them up: 24 + 14 + 38, you get \(24 + 14 + 38 = 76\). So, Nathan's total cost for the clothing items comes to \(\$76\). Always remember to add the individual item costs to get a total.

itemized_cost_list

Creating an itemized cost list helps you break down expenses and see what each item costs. This makes it easier to track spending and budget effectively. In Nathan's case, he bought three items, so his itemized list looks like this:

• Shirt: \(\$24\)
• Tie: \(\$14\)
• Slacks: \(\$38\)

By listing each item's cost separately, you can easily see how much was spent on each piece of clothing. This not only helps you calculate the total but also helps in comparing prices and finding opportunities to save money in the future. An itemized list is a great tool for managing finances.

addition_of_expenses

Adding expenses is crucial for staying within budget and planning future spending. The process involves summing up all costs to get a total. For Nathan, this means adding the costs of the shirt, tie, and slacks. Here's how you do it:
First, write down each expense:

• Shirt: \(\$24\)
• Tie: \(\$14\)
• Slacks: \(\$38\)

Next, add them together: 24 + 14 + 38. Adding these numbers step by step:

• Start with 24 + 14 = 38
• Then add the last expense: 38 + 38 = 76

So, Nathan's total expense came out to \(\$76\). Keeping track of individual expenses and adding them up ensures that you are aware of your spending patterns and financial status.