Stream of consciousness rationale: The subscription sends twice monthly issues, so there are 2 * 18 = 36 issues. Thus, the promotional offer is 36 * 0.25 = $9 cheaper than the normal subscription.
The question and answer pair are described below.
Q: An 18-month magazine subscription is normally $34. The magazine is currently running a promotion for $0.25 off each twice-a-month issue when signing up for the 18-month subscription. How many dollars cheaper is the promotional subscription than the normal one?
A: 9