From the condition, you have these 2 equations x + y = 55 dollars (1) 20x + 25y = 1175 dollars (2) whose meaning is clear without any explanations. From equation (1), express x = 55-y and substitute it into equation (2). You will get 20*(55-y) + 25y = 1175 1100 - 20y + 25y = 1175 5y = 1175 - 1100 = 75 y = 75/5 = 15. Then from equation (1), x = 55 - 15 = 40. ANSWER. 40 advance and 15 same day tickets. Check. 20*40 + 15*25 = 1175 dollars. ! Correct !