Let's solve the problem step by step.

Step 1: Define the total number of chocolates A initially had

Let the total number of chocolates A initially had be $x$.

Step 2: Calculate the chocolates left with A after giving away 60%

A gives away 60% of his chocolates, so he is left with: $\text{Chocolates left with A} = 0.4x$

Step 3: Calculate the chocolates given to B

A gives 80% of the 60% of chocolates to B, so B receives: $\text{Chocolates given to B} = 0.8 \times 0.6x = 0.48x$

Step 4: Calculate the remaining chocolates from the 60% given to C

The remaining chocolates from the 60% were given to C, so C receives: $\text{Chocolates given to C} = 0.6x - 0.48x = 0.12x$

Step 5: Establish the given condition

The problem states that the difference between the number of chocolates left with A and the number of chocolates with B is 144: $\text{Difference} = \text{Chocolates with B} - \text{Chocolates left with A}$ This gives us: $0.48x - 0.4x = 144$

Step 6: Solve the equation

Simplify the equation: $0.08x = 144$ Solve for $x$: $x = \frac{144}{0.08} = 1800$

Conclusion

The total number of chocolates A had is $\boxed{1800}$.

Would you like more details on any step, or do you have any other questions?

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Here are five related questions:

1. If A had initially 2400 chocolates, how many would B receive?
2. What would be the new difference if A gave 90% of his chocolates to B instead of 80%?
3. How many chocolates did C receive in this problem?
4. If the difference was 200 instead of 144, what would be the total number of chocolates A had?
5. If A had 2000 chocolates, how many would be left with A after giving 60% away?

Tip: When solving word problems, carefully interpret each percentage step-by-step to avoid errors.