A mattress is currently on sale for \( \$ 400 \). If the markdown percent is \( 42 \% \), what was the original price? Select one: a. \( \$ 689.66 \) b. \( \$ 789.00 \) o c. \( \$ 833.33 \) d. \( \$ 255.33 \)

To find the original price of the mattress, we can use the formula: \[ \text{Original Price} = \text{Sale Price} \div (1 - \text{Markdown Percent}) \] Given that the sale price is \( \$ 400 \) and the markdown percent is \( 42\% \) (or \( 0.42 \)), we have: \[ \text{Original Price} = 400 \div (1 - 0.42) = 400 \div 0.58 \approx 689.66 \] So, the answer is: a. \( \$ 689.66 \) Calculating markdowns is very common in retail, especially during sales. Understanding how to compute original prices can not only save you money but also keep you savvy during your shopping adventures! It's a handy skill when you come across those "limited time offers" that barely make sense at first glance. If you find math in shopping overwhelming, you're not alone! Many shoppers make the mistake of only looking at the markdown price and missing out on the potential value of comparing original prices across different stores. It’s always good to double-check how much you’re saving in terms of the original price!