The price of a certain painting increased by 25% 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?
Choose the correct choice from the following options.
A) 109 % B) 106.25 % C) 120 % D) 115 % E) 110 %

Rationale: "easiest thing to do : assume that price is 100 price at the end of yr 1 : 100 + 25 = 125 price at the end of year 2 = 125 - 125 * 0.15 = 125 * 0.85 = 106.25 hence required answer = ( 106.25 / 100 ) * 100 % = 106.25 % answer is b ."
Answer: B