Are these asking me the same thing?

Quick history, I got both of these questions on the same test in my math 60 class. After getting the test back home and was reviewing it I realized I had done the questions exactly the same but was marked wrong on one (the second one).

My question is: Are these asking me exactly the same question or did I miss something?


1) The shoes cost $25.00 to manufacture. We would like a 35% markup on cost. What is the selling price for these shoes? (my answer: $33.75, marked correct)


2) The Flowers cost $25.00 to acquire. We sell it for a markup of 35% on the selling price. What is this selling price?
(my answer: $33.75, marked wrong, instructor wrote $38.46 as correct)

Uhh...I messed up the first time. Try this?

Answer to the first: 25(.35)+25

Answer to second: (25(.35)+25)(.35)+25

Well....This is wierd. I'm not sure. They ARE worded differently though.

That's strange. I see nothing wrong with your reasoning. Possibly your teacher made a mistake. You should ask about it.

I appreciate the help, Glad to know I am not the only one who is a bit tripped up by it :)