Present ages of Sameer and Anand are in the ratio 5:4. Three years hence, the ratio becomes 11:9. What is Anand's present age (in years)?

Problem restatement
Use present ratio (5:4) and future ratio after 3 years (11:9) to solve for the common multiplier and hence Anand's age.

Given data

• Now: Sameer = 5x, Anand = 4x.
• After 3 years: (5x + 3):(4x + 3) = 11:9.

Concept/Approach
Cross-multiply the future ratio and solve for x.

Step-by-Step calculation
9(5x + 3) = 11(4x + 3)45x + 27 = 44x + 33 ⇒ x = 6Anand = 4x = 24

Verification/Alternative
Future ages: Sameer 33, Anand 27 → ratio 11:9, correct.

Common pitfalls
Setting 5x:4x = 11:9 directly (ignores the +3 years on both sides).

Final Answer
24