- Identify the base amount for the gratuity as the initial repair cost: \(\$1,200\).
- Determine the percentage rate for the gratuity: \(15\%\), or \(0.15\).
- Calculate the total gratuity: \(1,200 \times 0.15 = 180\).
- Final gratuity amount: \(\boxed{\$180.00}\).
Explanation
- Data and Problem Analysis
We are given the following data from Brody's computer repair bill:
- Initial Repair Cost = \(\$1,200\)
- Sales Tax = 6% of the initial cost, which is \(\$72.00\)
- Gratuity = 15% of the services provided.
The objective is to calculate the specific dollar amount of the 15% gratuity applied to the services provided, which is the initial repair cost.
- Calculating the Gratuity Amount
To calculate the gratuity, we apply the percentage rate to the base service cost. The gratuity is calculated as:
\(\text{Gratuity} = \text{Percentage} \times \text{Base Amount}\)
Given that the percentage is 15% (which is \(0.15\) in decimal form) and the base amount (the initial repair cost) is \(\$1,200\), the calculation is:
\(\text{Gratuity} = 0.15 \times \$1,200\)
Performing this multiplication:
\(0.15 \times 1,200 = 180\)
Thus, the gratuity amount is \(\$180.00\).
Examples
Calculating gratuity or tax is a common task in daily life. For instance, if you receive professional services like a haircut or a home repair, it is standard practice to tip based on the base price before tax. Understanding how to calculate percentages helps you budget your expenses accurately and ensure you provide the correct gratuity for services rendered. For example, if a service costs \(\$80\) and you want to leave a 20% tip, the calculation is \(\$80 \times 0.20 = \boxed{\$16}\).