1. Stating the problem: The net amount after a 2% deduction is 339, and we need to find the original gross amount before the deduction. 2. Let the gross amount be $x$. 3. Since 2% is deducted, the remaining amount is 98% of the gross amount: $$0.98x = 339$$ 4. Solve for $x$ by dividing both sides by 0.98: $$x = \frac{339}{0.98}$$ 5. Calculate the value: $$x = 345.92$$ 6. Therefore, the gross amount before 2% deduction is approximately 345.92.