I can't believe this is a homework problem

[Jamin2112]

Homework Statement

Three people register for a room; the desk clerk charges them $30. The manager returns and says this was on overcharge, instructing the clerk to return $5. The clerk takes five $1 bills, but pockets $2 as a tip and returns only $1 to each guest. Of the original $30 payment, each guest actually paid $9, and $2 went to the attendant. What happened to the "missing" dollar?

Homework Equations

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The Attempt at a Solution

Is it something with the wording?

 

[hikaru1221]

"Of the original $30 payment, each guest actually paid $9, and $2 went to the attendant."

This statement is wrong. The actual payment the three guests made is 30 - 1*3 = 27 dollars, of which $25 goes to the hotel and $2 goes to the clerk. No bill vanished

Edit: To edit the above statement:
"Of the original $30 payment, each guest actually paid $9, and $3 went back to the guests."

 

[Dadface]

It's an old and I suppose classic question which is worded in a way designed to confuse.The scenario I am most familiar with relates to three diners in a restaurant.

 

[Kurdt]

This is a very old riddle. There is nothing wrong with the wording.

 

[Jamin2112]

"Of the original $30 payment, each guest actually paid $9, and $2 went to the attendant."

This statement is wrong. The actual payment the three guests made is 30 - 1*3 = 27 dollars, of which $25 goes to the hotel and $2 goes to the clerk. No bill vanished

Edit: To edit the above statement:
"Of the original $30 payment, each guest actually paid $9, and $3 went back to the guests."

Huh? Where does the 30 come into play here? The problem specifically says that a $30 payment took place!

[PLAIN]http://icanhascheezburger.wordpress.com/files/2007/08/skeptical-cat-is-fraught-with-skepticism.jpg

 

[Jamin2112]

Is the attendant paid separately from the clerk?

 

[Jamin2112]

Explain this to me as if I were a 4-year-old.

 

[hikaru1221]

Sorry, misred it. So $2 goes to the attendant.
Yes, the guests at first paid $30. But each was given back $1. It is the money they actually paid, i.e. $27, that went to both the attendant and the hotel eventually.