Take the task of creating a meal and break it into stages.

Stage 1: Select 3 entrees
Since the order in which we select the entrees does not matter, we can use combinations.
We can select 3 entrees from 5 entrees in 5C3 ways (10 ways)
So, we can complete stage 1 in 10 ways

If anyone is interested, we have a video (below) on calculating combinations (like 5C3) in your head

ASIDE: We now have our 3 entrees, but we don't have a sauce for each entree.

Stage 2: Choose a sauce for one of of the entrees
We have 2 choices (garlic or chili sauce), so we can complete stage 2 in 2 ways

Stage 3: Choose a sauce for another entree
We have 2 choices (garlic or chili sauce), so we can complete stage 3 in 2 ways

Stage 4: Choose a sauce for the last remaining entree
We have 2 choices (garlic or chili sauce), so we can complete stage 4 in 2 ways

By the Fundamental Counting Principle (FCP), we can complete all 4 stages (and thus create a meal) in (10)(2)(2)(2) ways (= 80 ways)

Answer: C

Note: the FCP can be used to solve the MAJORITY of counting questions on the GRE. So, be sure to learn it.

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