Understanding no. of tables

[user1620]

In the first part of the problem:
After considering 3 members at the first table, why aren’t we subtracting that table from the no. of tables multiplied with the members. Because they do say “4 members seated at each of the other tables”
In my mind the equation is 3 + 4(x-1) = total
As per the solution provided by greg, its 3 + 4x = total

Just trying to understand the thinking here.

[cylverixxx]

@user1620

In my mind the equation is 3 + 4(x-1) = total
As per the solution provided by greg, its 3 + 4x = total

It doesn’t matter.

@user1620

Just trying to understand the thinking here.

I think there’s merit in thinking about it this way:

The whole question just boils down to finding a number between 10 and 40 that leaves a remainder of 3 when divided by both 4 and 5.