Word Problem - False Position Method

Ron borrowed X amount of money from Harry, and promised to pay it back in 3 months. 1 month in, Ron paid 1/5 of the amount by paying for Harry's food. At the end of the 3 months, Ron gave Harry $96. What was the original amount that Harry lent Ron?

x = money lent to Ron 

x - x/5 =  96

First, we'll try x = 10

10 - (10/5) = 96 

10 - 2 = 96

8 ≠ 96 

Since 96 divided by 8 = 12, the correct answer should be 12 times our trial number, which was 10. (12 x 10 = 120)

120 - 120/5 = 96

120 - 24 = 96

96 = 96

Therefore, Harry lent Ron $120.