And two examples of present value?
1. Karen wishes to have $5000 saved in 3 years time for a holiday. Interest is compounded monthly at 6% p.a. What lump sum does he need to invest now to reach his target amount?
You can do this using the little PV formula. The "lump sum invested now" is the present value.
2. James borrows $180 000 at 9% p.a. over 20 years. What is his monthly repayment?
Loans are ALWAYS present value questions, and the amount borrowed is the present value. For this one you'll use the big PV formula. N = $180 000, r = 0.075, n = 240 and you're trying to find M, the monthly payment.