In Exercises 36–43, use the five-step strategy for solving word problems. An apartment complex has offered you a move-in special of 30% off the first month's rent. If you pay $945 for the first month, what should you expect to pay for the second month when you must pay full price?

Understanding percentages is crucial for solving problems involving discounts or increases. In this scenario, the apartment complex offers a 30% discount on the first month's rent. To find the original rent before the discount, one must calculate what amount corresponds to 70% of the original price, as 100% minus 30% equals 70%.

Using algebraic expressions allows for a clearer representation of relationships between quantities. In this problem, if we let 'x' represent the original rent, we can set up the equation 0.7x = 945 to find the full price of the rent. This approach simplifies the process of solving for unknowns in word problems.

Differentiating between full price and discounted price is essential in financial problems. The first month's rent is paid at a discounted rate, while subsequent months require payment at the full price. Recognizing this distinction helps in calculating future payments accurately, as the second month's rent will be the original price determined from the first month's calculations.