Let's analyze the problem step by step and determine which step Bryan used for his comparison.
1. Understanding Rates:
- Company A charges [tex]$14.65 per box.
- Company B offers the first box for free and charges $[/tex]16.20 for each additional box.
2. Defining the Plan:
- Calculate the total cost for Company A: Since Company A charges a flat rate per box, multiply the rate by the number of boxes.
- Calculate the total cost for Company B: Factor in the free first box and then add the cost for the additional boxes.
3. Calculating Costs Using Multiplication and Addition:
- Company A: Multiply [tex]$14.65 by 3 (for three boxes).
\[
\text{Total Cost A} = 3 \times 14.65 = 43.95
\]
- Company B: The first box is free, so calculate the cost of the remaining two boxes.
\[
\text{Total Cost B} = 0 + 2 \times 16.20 = 32.40
\]
4. Comparing Results to Determine the Best Option:
- Total cost for Company A is $[/tex]43.95.
- Total cost for Company B is $32.40.
- Company B offers a better rate.
5. Making a Decision Based on the Calculations:
- Since Company B is cheaper, Bryan should choose Company B for the shipping.
6. Finalizing and Rechecking:
- Review the calculations to ensure accuracy.
From the described steps, it's clear that Step 3 is where Bryan decided to use multiplication and addition to compare the prices. Therefore, the step Bryan used to help him decide is:
Step 3
