\begin{tabular}{l} You plan to buy holiday gifts for your coworkers. You want to buy 3 candles that \\ cost \( \$ 12.32 \) each after tax and 2 packs of stationery that cost \( \$ 8.78 \) each after tax. \\ How much money will you end up spending on each type of gift? \\ \$ \( \$ 369.60 \) on candles and \( \$ 170.56 \) on stationery \\ \( \$ 36.96 \) on candles and \( \$ 170.56 \) on stationery \\ \( \$ 369.60 \) on candles and \( \$ 17.56 \) on stationery \\ \( \$ 36.96 \) on candles and \( \$ 17.56 \) on stationery \\ \hline\( \$ \)\end{tabular}

To calculate the total amount spent on each type of gift, you can simply multiply the cost of each item by the number of items purchased. For the candles, multiply \( 3 \) candles by \( \$ 12.32 \) each, which totals \( \$ 36.96 \). For the stationery, multiply \( 2 \) packs by \( \$ 8.78 \) each, which totals \( \$ 17.56 \). So, you'll spend \( \$ 36.96 \) on candles and \( \$ 17.56 \) on stationery. Candles and stationery may seem like basic office supplies, but they have interesting histories! For centuries, candles have played a crucial role in human civilization, evolving from beeswax and tallow to modern scented varieties. Stationery, on the other hand, dates back to the invention of paper in ancient China. It has transformed from simple scrolls to the diverse array of notebooks and writing tools we see today, often used for heartfelt notes and letters. Should you ever venture into holiday gift-buying for coworkers, consider personalizing the gifts! Opt for scented candles that cater to individual preferences, or stylish stationery sets that match their personality. Just make sure to avoid common pitfalls, like overspending or choosing overly generic items. Tailoring your selection while staying within budget can make your gifts more meaningful and appreciated!