Simple Math

What's happened with basic math skills in the US?

Recently, I have seen a number of obvious bad deals hocked by cashiers who truly believed they were a good deal.

For instance, I wanted to buy coffee for my house, so while I was at Dunkin' Donuts, I saw a sign that said, Buy 1lb, Get 1lb Free - $9.99.

I approached the counter to buy it. While the cashier was directing me toward the coffee area so I could pick the flavors, she says, "You know, we have another great offer. Buy 2lbs and Get 1lb Free."

I asked, "How much is that?"

She replies, "$16.99. Do you want it?"

I looked at her oddly, doing the calculation, 9.99/2 = about $5 each, and 16.99 / 3 = about $5.60 each, over and over and finally I just shook my head and bought 2 pounds after thinking a good minute about rather my math skills were really off.

Is this some devious ploy DD is trying to trick customers? I don't think so. I truly believe someone thought this would be a great promotion without thinking through the logic.

Saving money making coffee

As I continue my journey to save money on everyday goods, I started digging around and found some starbucks beans that were unopened. I decided to make 10 cups of coffee and chill in the fridge. That should provide about 5 days worth of morning iced coffee.

The beans I originally bought for about $7 and they can probably make about 60-70 cups of coffee. Considering I had been paying $2.25 for a coffee from Dunkin Donuts, that's about $78.75 I wouldn't be spending, netting $71.75 in savings. However, the coffee machine and grinding equipment cost about $150.

So within two bags of coffee, I will have at the very least paid for all the equipment and beans and well on my way to savings.

Anyone else doing these little things to save money?

Personal Note

Just realized how much I spend on coffee every month. Its scary. At $2 a coffee and 3 times a day, that $30 a work week and $120 a month. And I don't need it! I should just be getting more sleep, which would actually add health value as well.

Starting that this week.