PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 297: Answer and Explanation

Question: 297

A bowling league charges a one-time membership fee of $25, plus x dollars each month. If a bowler has paid $53 for the first 4 months, including the membership fee, what is the value of x?

• A. 4
• B. 7
• C. 10
• D. 13

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

B

Difficulty: Medium

Category: Word Problems

Strategic Advice: Backsolve by plugging in answer choices for x to determine which answer matches the cost of four months of membership.

Getting to the Answer: Examine the answer choices, starting with (B) or (C). If the answer you choose is too large or too small, you will know which direction to go. Multiply the answer choice by 4 and add the $25 membership fee.

(B): $7× $4 = $28 ® $28 + $25 = $53. This is a match, so (B) is the correct answer.

Algebra could also be used here:

Algebra also leads to $7, which is (B).