Mastering Discounts: A Closer Look at Cost Calculations

Have you ever stared at a price tag wondering how much you’ll really pay after discounts? You’re not alone! Let’s break down a fun example that not only illustrates the math behind it but also could come in handy in daily life. Plus, this could be a great boost to your capabilities for the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT)! Ready? Let’s go!

Imagine Josephine wants to buy some delicious Persian rice (which we all know is a game-changer in any dish!). One kilo costs $5. So you’d think buying 12 kilos would be as straightforward as simply multiplying, right? But hold that thought—there’s a 20% discount involved!

Calculating the Total Cost Before Discount

First up, let’s see how much those 12 kilos would set Josephine back without any discount. Simple math gives us:

12 kilos × $5/kilo = $60.

Easy-peasy, so far. But wait, there’s more! Josephine can snag a discount of 20% on every 4 kilos. Who doesn’t love a little savings?

Finding the Discounts Available

Now, how many bundles of 4 kilos does Josephine get in those 12 kilos? A bit of division gives us:

12 kilos ÷ 4 kilos per discount = 3 discounts.

This means she can apply a discount on three separate groups of 4 kilos each! Now we’re getting somewhere.

Understanding the Discount Amount

Next, let’s find out how much she gets off. The cost for each set of 4 kilos is:

4 kilos × $5/kilo = $20.

With a 20% discount, we calculate this amount:

20% of $20 = 0.2 × $20 = $4.

So, if we deduct that discount, the new price for each set of 4 kilos becomes:

$20 - $4 = $16.

Calculating the Final Cost After Discounts

Now back to our total price! Since there are three sets of 4 kilos in Josephine's 12 kilos, we multiply the discounted price for one set by the number of sets:

3 sets × $16/set = $48.

The Final Decision: How Much Does Josephine Pay?

So, all in all, Josephine is walking away with 12 kilos of rice for just $48! Pretty neat, huh? You know what? This not only makes for a great dinner but also shows how a bit of math can go a long way in saving some dollars and cents.

Why It Matters for the CCAT

Understanding these kinds of calculations is super beneficial when preparing for the CCAT. The faster and more accurately you can handle numbers, the better! It’s a great way to boost your reasoning skills while knowing that your future self will thank you every time you make a smart purchase.

And next time you’re at the store, remember Josephine and her rice! The math behind budgeting isn't just relevant for test prep; it’s a life skill. Ready to tackle your financial decisions with confidence?