SOLUTION: I know that the answer to this word problem is $80 already. I just would like to see how the work is done: The total cost for a dinner was $97.52. This included a 15% tip calcul

If you need immediate math help from PAID TUTORS right now, click here. (paid link)
Click here to see ALL problems on Money Word Problems

Question 232379: I know that the answer to this word problem is $80 already. I just would like to see how the work is done:
The total cost for a dinner was $97.52. This included a 15% tip calculated on the cost of the dinner after a 6% sales tax. Find of the cost of dinner before the tip and tax.
Thank you!
Answer by ptaylor(1894) (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
OK
Let x=cost of dinner before tax and tip
Then 0.06x=sales tax
Cost of dinner after 6% sales tax would be (x+0.06x) or (1.06x)
The 15% tip would be 0.15(1.06x) or 0.159x
Then total cost would be:
x+0.06x+0.159x and this would equal $97.52. So our equation to solve is:
x+0.06x+0.159x=$97.52 collect like terms
1.219x=$97.52 divide each side by 1.219
x=$80--------------------------cost of dinner before tax and tip
Hope this helps---ptaylor