Choice A is the correct answer. The average formula is $\frac{\text{Sum of terms}}{\text{Number of terms}}$.

1. Set up: $\frac{78 + 85 + 92 + x}{4} \geq 88$
2. Sum knowns: $255 + x$
3. Multiply by 4: $255 + x \geq 88 \times 4 = 352$
4. Subtract 255: $x \geq 352 - 255$
5. Result: $x \geq 97$

?�� Strategic Tip: For average problems, multiply the target average by the total number of items to find the required sum.

Choice B is incorrect because scoring the average (88) would bring the total average down since the current average is $\frac{255}{3} = 85$. Choice C is incorrect because it sets a maximum limit instead of a minimum requirement. Choice D is incorrect because 352 is the required total sum, not the single test score.