The price of a certain painting increased by 30% during the first year and decreased by 15% during the second year. The price of the painting at the end of the 2-year period was what percent of the original price? Answers:
A) 102 %
B) 105 %
C) 110.5 %
D) 112.5 %
E) 100 %

Rationale: easiest thing to do : assume that price is 100 price at the end of yr 1 : 100 + 30 = 130 price at the end of year 2 = 130 - 130 * 0.15 = 130 * 0.85 = 110.5 hence required answer = ( 110.5 / 100 ) * 100 % = 110.5 % answer is c .
Answer: C