James made $4000 in January. The next month he made twice as much. In March, however, James made $2000 less than in February. How much has James made so far this year? Give the rationale and then the answer.
Let's think step by step. In February James made 4000 * 2 = 8000. In March James made 8000 - 2000 = 6000. In total for the year James has made 4000 + 8000 + 6000 = $18000.. The answer is: 18000.

10 people attended class on Monday, 15 on Tuesday, and 10 on each day from Wednesday through Friday. What was the average number of people who attended class each day? Give the rationale and then the answer.
Let's think step by step. A total of 10 + 15 + 10 + 10 + 10 = 55 people attended class across the 5 days. An average of 55 people / 5 days = 11 people per day attended class.. The answer is: 11.

Michael loves to paint and sells his creations. He charges $100 for a large painting and $80 for a small painting. At his last art show, he sold 5 large paintings and 8 small paintings. How much did he earn in all? Give the rationale and then the answer.
Let's think step by step. He earned 5 x $100 = $500 for the large painting. And he earned 8 x $80 = $640 for the small paintings. Therefore, he earned a total of $500 + $640 = $1140 in all.. The answer is: 1140.