Problem: Nancy: Uh, yeah, I guess, but I'm pinching pennies myself, and you still owe me $20 from last week. And mom and your friend Ron said you borrowed money from them this past week. [Oh, yeah.] How ARE things going anyway? Ron: Well, not very well. To be honest, I'm really in the hole, and I can't seem to make ends meet these days. Nancy: What do you mean? I thought you landed a great job recently, so you must be loaded. Ron: Well, I do have a job, but I've used my credit cards to pay off a lot of things recently, but now, I can't seem to pay the money off. Nancy: Uh, do you have a budget? I mean, how do you keep track of your income and expenses? Ron: Well, when my money runs out, I come to you. Of course. [Great!] No, but I guess I should have some financial plan. Nancy: Well, let me see if I can help you. How much money do you spend on your apartment? Ron: Uh, I pay $890 on rent for the studio apartment downtown ... not including utilities and cable TV. But the place has an awesome view of the city. Nancy: Uh, $890! Why are you paying through the nose for such a small place when you could find a cheaper one somewhere outside of the downtown area? Ron: Yeah, I guess. Nancy: Okay. How much money do you spend on food a month? Ron: Hmmm. I'm not really sure. I think I spend around $600. [$600?!] Well, I go out to eat at least four times a week, so those expenses add up. I just don't enjoy eating alone, and I don't have a knack for cooking like you do. Nancy: Well, I can understand that, but perhaps you ought to buy some microwaveable meals you could prepare at home. Ron: Well, I guess I could. Nancy: And entertainment? Ron: Well, I spend a few dollars here and there on basketball and movie tickets, a concert or two, and ballroom dance lessons. Nancy: Uh, exactly how much do you spend on all of these? Just a "few" dollars? Ron: Well, oh ... about $400 or so. Nancy: Or so? No wonder you're having money problems. You can't just blow your money on things like that! And what about... What was said before this conversation?

A: Ron: Uh, could I borrow a few bucks until payday? I'm a little strapped for cash.

Problem: W: Sure, we can sit here. Be seated. M: Gee, you've hardly got anything on your tray. W: Yeah, I guess I'm just not that hungry. M: What's the matter? Aren't you feeling well? W: Well, I've been really worried. It's my car. It's in the repair shop again! M: Really? What's wrong this time? W: I don't know exactly. Something's wrong with the brakes I think. M: Well, at least that shouldn't cost too much to fix. Parts are cheaper for old American cars like yours. Did the mechanic say how much it would cost? W: He said he'd call me with an estimate later on today. M: Watch out he doesn't try to take advantage of you. W: What do you mean? M: Well, some car mechanics, if they think that someone doesn't know much about cars, they might try to overcharge that person. W: Maybe so, but I trust this guy. He was recommended by one of my neighbors. He's done some work for me in the past and his prices seemed to be reasonable. M: Oh, that's good to know. Maybe I'll try using him in the future. By the way, did you need a ride home after class today? W: Oh, I'll sure appreciate it. It's really tough getting around without a car when you live off campus. M: You are right, I think now you should think about moving back to your dormitory. If I were you, I would be fed up with those troubles. What was said before this conversation?

A: M: Is this table on the corner okay?

Problem: W: They are 40 dollars a pair, and 3 pairs make a total of 120 dollars. But today we offer a 10% discount. What was said before this conversation?

A: M: I'll have these shoes. Please tell me how much I owe you.

Problem: W: Yes. Come this way,please. This is the bedroom. M: Maybe it is a bit small. May I see the kitchen? W: Sure, it is completely modern. What was said before this conversation?

A:
M: Would it be convenient to see the apartment now?