A number is increased by 20% and then decreased by 15%. The result is 102. What was the original number?

Sun, 03 May 2026 15:17:13 +0000

**Why Is “A Number Is Increased by 20% and then Decreased by 15%. The Result Is 102” Still a Popular Numerical Mystery?**

In the fast-paced flow of online content, curiosity often centers on simple but puzzling math riddles—a classic example being: *A number is increased by 20% and then decreased by 15%, resulting in 102. What was the original number?* This question resurfaces regularly, particularly in financial planning, retail trends, and digital engagement, where small percentage shifts create meaningful impacts. The answer isn’t obvious at first, but understanding the math behind it reveals clarity—and helps clarify a surprising real-world scenario. The formula behind the transformation is straightforward: increase by 20% means multiplying by 1.2, then decreasing by 15% is equivalent to multiplying by 0.85.