Let x equal the amount of money he/she started with (The pronouns change in the question.)
1/3x + 1/5x = 32
We need a common denominator to add the fractions. We’ll use 15.
5/15x + 3/15x = 32
8/15x = 32
Multiply both sides by 15/8, or multiply by 15, then divide by 8, if that is easier to understand.
8x = 480
x = 60
He/she started with $60.
Let’s check the math:
1/3 of $60 is $20
1/5 of $60 is $12
$20 + $12 = $32.
Please let me know if you have any questions. I hope you have a good day.