Final answer:
Tina has theoretically saved $732, but this amount is not present in the provided answer choices, suggesting there might be a typo or error in the question.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves using algebra to solve for the amount Tina has saved so far. We let x represent the amount that Tina has already saved. According to the problem, when Tina saves three times as much as she has already saved, she'll be close to her goal, needing only an additional $54. This information gives us the equation 3x + 54 = $2,250. Solving this equation for x will give us the amount Tina has currently saved.
- Start by subtracting 54 from both sides of the equation: 3x = $2,250 - $54
- Calculate the right side: 3x = $2,196
- Divide both sides by 3 to solve for x: x = $732
Unfortunately, $732 is not one of the provided answer choices. The student may have made a typo in the question, or there might be an error. It's important to verify the original problem and make sure the numbers are correct. As of the current information, none of the choices (a) $324, (b) $486, (c) $594, and (d) $1,890 match the calculated amount.