Three-stage counting principle, step by step
Three mains, two sides and four drinks make twenty-four meals.
The question
9 mains, 3 sides and 7 drinks. How many different meals can you make?
9 mains, 3 sides and 7 drinks. How many different meals can you make?
937
9×3=27
27×7=189
- Each of the 9 mains can go with every one of the 3 sides, so the choices multiply — they do not add.
- First two stages: 9 × 3 = 27.
- Then the 7 drinks: 27 × 7 = 189.
How it works.
- 01
Each of the 9 mains can go with every one of the 3 sides, so the choices multiply — they do not add.
- 02
First two stages: 9 × 3 = 27.
- 03
Then the 7 drinks: 27 × 7 = 189.