Wisconsin has recently changed the method by which a nitrogen (N) application rate for corn is determined. The method takes into account corn N response data along with corn and N prices and is called the maximum return to N (MRTN). The MRTN approach is not drastically different than the previous system. However, the incorporation of the economics component added a layer of complexity. Thus, a hands-on exercise was developed to aid in understanding how to obtain a N rate recommendation and how the MRTN approach is economically superior to other methods for determining a N rate. Prior to the exercise, participants were asked to complete a one page questionnaire. A presentation was made describing the MRTN approach along with comparing it to the previous method. Participants were then placed in small groups to complete the exercise. The goal of the exercise was to determine a N rate that would maximize economic return in each of three different scenarios. Three groups were assigned a method of determining N rate (old UW method, MRTN, or yield goal) while the other groups could choose any method to arrive at a N rate. At the end of the exercise participants were asked to report out their results for each scenario and a discussion of the results ensued. Participants were then asked to complete the reverse side of their initial questionnaire. More than 600 people participated in the exercise. Evaluation of the pre and post exercise questionnaires found that nearly everyone enjoyed the exercise and learned that grain and N prices should influence N rate, most had an increased comfort level with the change in N recommendation systems, and many were willing to try using the new approach in 2006. With a little creativity this exercise could easily be adapted to other agronomic practices.