1. **State the problem:** Samantha withdrew 160 from her bank account, and the new balance is 379.52. We need to find the balance before the withdrawal. 2. **Formula and explanation:** The balance before withdrawal minus the amount withdrawn equals the balance after withdrawal. $$\text{Balance before} - \text{Withdrawal} = \text{Balance after}$$ 3. **Set up the equation:** Let $x$ be the balance before withdrawal. $$x - 160 = 379.52$$ 4. **Solve for $x$:** Add 160 to both sides to isolate $x$. $$x - \cancel{160} + 160 = 379.52 + 160$$ $$x = 539.52$$ 5. **Answer:** The balance before the withdrawal was $539.52$.