A Further Examination of Noncash Charges.

Consider the following cash flow statement of Dell Computer (Nasdaq NMS:DELL) in order to forecast Dell’s future cash flows. The special charges relate to restructuring charges and purchased research and development expenses.

Years Ending

29 Jan 1999

28 Jan 2000

2 Feb 2001

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income

$1,460

$1,666

$2,177

Adjustments to reconcile net income to

net cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

103

156

240

Tax benefits of employee stock plans

444

1,040

929

Special charges

194

105

Gain on sale of investments

(9)

(80)

(307)

Other

20

56

109

Changes in:

Operating working capital

367

812

671

Non current assets and liabilities

51

82

271

Net cash provided by operating activities

$2,436

$3,926

$4,195

How would you use the tax benefits of employee stock option plans, special charges, and the gain on sale of investments as noncash charges when using the add back method to calculate free cash flows starting from net income?