Those of you who know me have heard my motto: “I don’t do math–I’m here on a basketball scholarship!” And it’s true–I am Not good at math. I think it has to do with me being a writer and that whole right brain-left brain thing. My sister is a math whiz. I used to bring her to my college math class so she could “interpret” what the professor was saying. Funny thing though–the professor didn’t find it amusing when I offered to have her explain it to him as well!
I can do “practical math” however. Or–as I call it–math that makes sense! I can calculate a 20% sale price with ease, or figure a 15% tip faster than my husband’s smart phone. The way I do such math made one college tutor shake his head and say “you’re doing it all Wrong!” When I asked him if I got the right answer, he said yes, but the way I did it was wrong. I still don’t understand how it could be wrong if I got the right answer. But that’s a whole different subject.
This weekend is a holiday and therefore an excuse for a plethora of sales. Our favorite bookstore is offering 40% off. And “since we are preferred members” (translation–we already spend too much money there), we get an extra 10% off. “That’s almost 48% savings” the ad brags. I definitely Don’t get that math! Why doesn’t 40% + 10% equal 50%? My husband understands (he has math and writing skills–very impressive) and he tried to explain it to me without success.
Here is something I do understand. No matter what percentage you save–you are still spending money you wouldn’t have. So the best way to save is still the simplest–don’t spend! Can’t remember who is was who advised “the best way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it in your wallet.” Such good advice!
So this weekend, I won’t be saving 10% or 40% – I will be saving 100%. And that’s math even I understand!
Happy Memorial Day everyone!
