To solve this problem, we will calculate the tax implications for each scenario described:

Part 1: Tax Liability from a Second Job

Jana earns $15,000 from a second job and is in the 35% marginal tax bracket. The tax liability will be calculated as:

$\text{Tax Liability} = \text{Income} \times \text{Marginal Tax Rate}$

$\text{Tax Liability} = 15,000 \times 0.35 = 5,250$

Answer: $5,250

Part 2: Tax Liability from Selling Investments Held for Several Years

Investments held for more than one year qualify for long-term capital gains tax rates. Assuming Jana's tax rate is 20% for long-term capital gains (standard rate for high-income individuals), the calculation is:

$\text{Tax Liability} = \text{Gain} \times \text{Long-Term Capital Gains Tax Rate}$

$\text{Tax Liability} = 15,000 \times 0.20 = 3,000$

Answer: $3,000

Part 3: Tax Liability from Selling Investments Held for Just 6 Months

Investments held for less than one year are taxed as ordinary income at the marginal tax rate (35% in this case). The calculation mirrors the first part:

$\text{Tax Liability} = \text{Gain} \times \text{Marginal Tax Rate}$

$\text{Tax Liability} = 15,000 \times 0.35 = 5,250$

Answer: $5,250

Summary of Results

1. From the second job: $5,250
2. From selling long-term investments: $3,000
3. From selling short-term investments: $5,250

Questions to Consider:

1. How does the marginal tax bracket impact Jana's decision between a second job and selling investments?
2. Would Jana save money on taxes by timing the sale of investments differently?
3. How do long-term capital gains tax rates compare to ordinary income tax rates for someone in a 35% bracket?
4. What strategies can Jana use to minimize her tax liability?
5. What are the potential risks of selling investments versus working extra hours?

Tip: Always consider the tax implications of different income sources to make an informed financial decision.