Answer:
$14.60
Explanation:
Let's represent the cost of the meal as "x".
Since Ali gave an 18% tip, the total amount he paid, including the tip, is $17.23.
We can set up the equation as follows:
x + 0.18x = $17.23
Simplifying the equation:
1.18x = $17.23
Now, we can solve for "x" by dividing both sides of the equation by 1.18:
x = $17.23 / 1.18
Using a calculator, we find that x is approximately $14.60 (rounded to the nearest cent).
Therefore, the cost of Ali's meal before the tip was approximately $14.60.