Crunching Numbers: Finding the Final Price of Your Dream Sound System

When it comes to shopping for big-ticket items like a surround sound entertainment system, understanding how discounts and taxes affect your final price can save you some serious cash. That’s right! Let’s break this down together, so the next time you step into an electronics store, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions without breaking a sweat.

To illustrate, let’s take an example of a surround sound system originally priced at $1,000. Sounds fancy, right? Now, imagine you learn there’s a 20% discount. Exciting! But what does that really mean for you at the cash register?

Step 1: Apply the 20% Discount
First things first, let’s calculate that 20% discount. Here’s how:

• 20% of $1,000 equals $200.
• Now, subtract that amount from the original price: $1,000 - $200 = $800.

Look at that! You’re already down to $800. Feeling good?

Step 2: Next Up, the 10% Discount
Now, let’s think about that second discount — a 10% cut off your new price of $800. Here’s the simple math:

• 10% of $800 is $80.
• So, when you take away that $80, you’re left with: $800 - $80 = $720.

You really are snagging a deal here! But hold on, we’re not done just yet...

Step 3: Adding the Sales Tax
Now, here's where the plot thickens a little—tax. Got your calculator ready? We need to factor in 5% sales tax on that final discounted price of $720. Let’s calculate that:

• 5% of $720 is $36.
• So when we add that to the $720, we end up with: $720 + $36 = $756.

And there you have it, folks—the final purchase price of the surround sound entertainment system you now can’t wait to show off is $756!

So what’s the takeaway here? When you're navigating discounts and adding tax, step by step calculations can save you from overspending. Each percentage adds up quick—just like those movie marathons you binge-watch after getting your perfect sound setup!

Knowing how to properly calculate the final price is as essential as picking the right system for your needs. Remember, getting the best deal doesn’t just happen by chance; sometimes, it requires a little math on your part! So, the next time you're eyeing that sweet surround sound system, you'll know just how to find out what it’ll take to make it yours.