Answer:
There were 48 mints altogether
Explanation:
If we allow O to represent the original amount of mints, we can use the following equation and steps to solve for O:
(Original amount of mints * 5/12) - 6 mints = 14 mints left
5/12O - 6 = 14
Step 1: Add 6 to both sides:
(5/12O - 6 = 14) + 6
5/12O = 20
Step 2: Divide both sides by 5/12. Then, multiply both sides by the reciprocal (12/5) to solve for O:
(5/12O = 20) / (5/12)
(5/12O = 20) * (12/5)
O = 48
Thus, there were 48 mints altogether.
Optional: Check the validity of the answer:
5/12 of 48 is 20, meaning John received 20 mints.
20 - 6 = 14, so our answer is correct.