<p>There are some problems that are “shopping” problems, where you are supposed to figure out how to buy a specified amount (60 ounces of corn for example) for the least amount of money possible. They give you three different brands of corn, each of which is in a different size can, and has a different price.</p>
<p>Anyway, what is the best way to approach these type of problems?. I suppose you first calculate the price per ounce. Then you use as many of the cheapest sizes possible, and play with different comibinations. Is there a better way? Should you set up an algebraic formula?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>I guess I need a more specific example, so I made one up. (I understand you can’t put actual sat problems here for copyright issues.)</p>
<p>Anyway this is a made-up problem. I’m more interested in the best method rather than the answer!</p>
<p>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p>
<p>Say they give you a chart for cans of corn showing:</p>
<p>brand h is 16 oz and costs $1.00</p>
<p>brand m is 20 oz and costs $1.10</p>
<p>brand z iz 24 oz and costs $1.50</p>
<p>What is the least you can spend to purchase 70 oz of corn?</p>
<p>(This is a sample problem I made up, similar to other problems)</p>
<p>Buy 3 brand m’s and 1 brand h.</p>