1. **State the problem:** Zara borrows 2500 at an annual compound interest rate of 4.5% and repays after 3 years. We need to find the total amount she must pay. 2. **Formula for compound interest:** $$A = P \left(1 + \frac{r}{100}\right)^t$$ where $A$ is the amount to be paid, $P$ is the principal, $r$ is the annual interest rate, and $t$ is the time in years. 3. **Substitute the values:** $$P = 2500, \quad r = 4.5, \quad t = 3$$ 4. **Calculate the amount:** $$A = 2500 \left(1 + \frac{4.5}{100}\right)^3 = 2500 \left(1 + 0.045\right)^3 = 2500 \times 1.045^3$$ 5. **Evaluate $1.045^3$:** $$1.045^3 = 1.045 \times 1.045 \times 1.045 = 1.139665125$$ 6. **Multiply by principal:** $$A = 2500 \times 1.139665125 = 2849.1628125$$ 7. **Round to nearest cent:** $$A \approx 2849.16$$ **Final answer:** Zara must pay $2849.16 after 3 years.