Edward spent $ 16. Then he received $ 19 from his friend. Now he has $ 44. How much did Edward have before he spent his money?
Edward spent $16. So he had $16 less than he does now. 

Edward's friend gave him $19. So he has $19 more than he did before. 

Now Edward has $44. 

$44 - $19 = $25

$25 + $16 = $41

So Edward had $41 before he spent his money.