Show show me how to do this with an equation or table!

Using the systems approach

X for small cups and Y for large cups

X + Y = 212 (equation I) representing cups
2X + 3Y = 489 (equation II) representing prices

Using (equation I)
X + Y = 212
X = 212 - Y (new eqation)

Substitute the value of X in the (new equation) into (equation II)
2X + 3Y = 489
2 ( 212 - Y) + 3Y = 489
424 - 2Y + 3Y = 489
424 + Y = 489
Y = 489 - 424
Y = 65

Substitute the value of Y in the (new equation)
X = 212 - Y
X = 212 - 65
X = 147

147 small cups were sold along with 65 large cups of coffee.

(make sure you cross check with your calculation)

This is a system problem

x+y=212
2x+3y=489

X=small coffees
Y=Large coffees