Andy started out the year weighing 156 pounds. He then grew 3 inches and gained 36 pounds. Andy wasn't happy with his weight and decided to exercise. Over the next 3 months, he lost an eighth of his weight every month. How much less does Andy weigh now than at the beginning of the year? Give me reasons, before answering the question
Andy weighed 156 + 36 = 192 pounds after growing taller. An eighth of his weight is 1 / 8 x 192 = 24 pounds. Over the next 3 months, Andy lost 24 x 3 = 72 pounds. He now weighs 192 - 72 = 120 pounds. Andy weighs 156 - 120 = 36 pounds less than at the beginning of the year. So the final answer is 36.