To determine Madison's earnings for the first week, we need to calculate both her base weekly salary and her commission on sales.

Step 1: Calculate the base weekly salary

Madison's base weekly salary is $750.

Step 2: Calculate the commission

Madison earns a 3% commission on sales in excess of $6,500. Her total sales for the first week are $25,000.

First, determine the amount of sales subject to the commission: $\text{Sales Subject to Commission} = 25,000 - 6,500 = 18,500$

Next, calculate the commission: $\text{Commission} = 18,500 \times 0.03 = 555$

Step 3: Calculate total earnings

Now, add the base salary and the commission to get the total earnings for the first week: $\text{Total Earnings} = 750 + 555 = 1,305$

So, Madison's earnings for the first week are $1,305.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are five questions you might consider next:

1. How are sales commissions typically structured in different industries?
2. What are the tax implications of earning commissions?
3. How can sales goals impact earnings?
4. What are some strategies for increasing sales performance?
5. How do base salaries compare to commission-based earnings in terms of job stability?

Tip: When calculating commissions, ensure that you subtract any non-commissionable base amount from the total sales before applying the commission percentage.