Because 9 X 3 = 27, 27 + 2= 29 But we are starting from 25 not 24. It'sall in the wording. Just like the question, I have 2 us coins in my hand that total 30 cents. But 1 of them is not a quarter, what are they? A quarter and a nickel. 1 isn't a quarter, but the other 1 is. Not slight of hand just slight of word. :lol: