confusing word problem

Question

the price of a coat is reduced by 40%. When the coat still does not sell, it is reduced another 40% off the already reduced price. If the price after both reductions is $72. What was the original price?  What is the net percent discount?

Answer 1

Let x = original price of the coat.

 

40% off means the cost of the coat is 60% the original price. (100% - 40% = 60%)

 

After the first 40% price cut:

= 0.6x

 

Reduce that by another 40% means the coat is now 60% of that cost.

 

After another 40% price cut:

= 0.6(0.6x)

 

multiply 0.6 * 0.6

=  0.36x

 

As you can see, the coat is now 36% the original price x after both reductions. You are given the new price of the coat after both reductions, set equal and solve for x, the original price.

 

$72 = 36x

 

$72/0.36 = x

 

$200 = x