Let x equal the amount of money he/she started with (The pronouns change in the question.)
1/3x + 1/5x = 32 We need a common denominator to add the fractions. We’ll use 15. 5/15x + 3/15x = 32 8/15x = 32 Multiply both sides by 15/8, or multiply by 15, then divide by 8, if that is easier to understand. 8x = 480 x = 60
He/she started with $60.
Let’s check the math: 1/3 of $60 is $20 1/5 of $60 is $12 $20 + $12 = $32.
Please let me know if you have any questions. I hope you have a good day.
