Reflection

Embarking on this project was like discovering a secret door to the practical side of math.

A world where numbers aren't just weird symbols, but powerful tools to help real-life situations.

For example by seeing how one can compare gas mileage and the cost of two cars into equations.

I found myself crafting formulas that transformed seemingly mundane data into dynamic

solutions. With a sprinkle of substitution and a dash of elimination, I could almost hear the gears

turning as I uncovered the secrets of which car would reign supreme in the realm of affordability.

Imagine embarking on a whimsical journey down the winding roads of cost comparison,

where two mighty contenders, the eco-friendly hybrid (Toyota Camry Hybrid) and the reliable

gasoline guzzler (Toyota Camry SE), engage in a fight over who has more financial balance.

Comparing the two it will take about 3 years or 36 months to be exact. Where their costs will

converge at the magical intersection of equal total costs, revealing a grand total of $32,213 and

maybe a couple of extra coins. Looking back at the data rather than being taken back by what I

saw, I found myself nodding along, pleasantly surprised to see which car would help me in the

long run. Seeing which one is more cost-effective and how much I can save.

For further proof, consider yourself an adventurous college student who wants to travel

for weekend vacations. You're divided between two vehicles: a flashy, more expensive model

with the latest technology, and a more affordable alternative that promises a smooth ride. By

conducting a cost comparison analysis, as we did with the cars, you may include not only the

initial sticker price but also elements such as gas mileage, maintenance, and insurance expenses

over time. This way, you can make a wise decision that will leave you with enough money for

those memorable moments on the road.

 Now if I were to be a business owner, each decision I make has an impact on the

company's bottom line and overall profitability. So, if my manager presents me with the

outcomes of a project like this, she has to be very specific about the process she uses and support

her decision. Why? First and foremost, I need to understand how she arrived at her conclusions

to ensure that the study was complete and accurate. Second, I need to be sure that her decision is

supported by strong data and reasoning, especially if it involves large investments or changes to

our operations.

Reflecting on the data I obtained and my reflection, I've gained a new appreciation for

math. Initially, I saw it as a distant concept, limited to textbooks and classrooms with little

application to everyday life. However, as I began the process of comparing car pricing, I

discovered the hidden power of mathematics. It's more than just crunching numbers; it's about

confronting real-world problems and making educated decisions. Seeing how mathematical

formulas and equations might be applied to something as practical as automobile shopping made

me realize how versatile math is. It's more than a subject, it's a strong tool for navigating the

intricacies of our environment with ease and confidence.