How to Calculate the Original Price After a Discount

Calculating the original price of an item after a discount is a valuable skill, especially when shopping for sales. Understanding this concept can help you make informed purchasing decisions and manage your budget wisely.

When an item is on sale, the sale price reflects a reduction based on the original price. If you know the sale price and the percentage discount, you can easily find the original price. In this example, the sale price is $150, and the discount is 25%.

To determine the original price, first recognize that if an item is discounted by 25%, you are paying 75% of its original price. This is because 100% (the original price) minus 25% (the discount) equals 75%. Here’s how to set up the equation:

1. **Identify the Sale Price and Discount**:
- Sale Price = $150
- Discount = 25%

2. **Calculate the Percentage Remaining**:
- 100% - 25% = 75%
- This means the sale price is 75% of the original price.

3. **Set Up the Equation**:
- Sale Price = (Percentage Remaining) × (Original Price)
- So, $150 = 0.75 × (Original Price)

4. **Solve for the Original Price**:
- To find the Original Price, divide the Sale Price by the remaining percentage:
- Original Price = Sale Price / 0.75
- Original Price = $150 / 0.75 = $200

Thus, the original price of the item is $200.

### Real-World Application
Knowing how to calculate the original price can come in handy during shopping. For instance, if you're looking at a jacket that originally costs $200 but is on sale for $150, understanding the discount helps you assess whether it's a good deal. If you see another jacket priced at $180 with a 10% discount, you can use the same method to find out its original price and make comparisons between the two.

This technique is not only useful for shopping but can also be applied in budgeting and financial planning, where discounts and sales are frequent. Mastering these calculations can empower you to save money and make smarter financial choices in your everyday life.