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Here are some tips for handling GRE math questions that involve Data Analysis (analyzing and interpreting data presented in charts, graphs, and tables):- In gleaning data from a chart, graph or table, it's remarkably easy to inadvertently grab your data from the wrong graph, bar, line, etc. This is the #1 cause of incorrect responses in GRE Data Analysis. To avoid this blunder, point your finger to the data you want; put your finger directly against the computer screen and keep it there until you're sure you're looking at the right part of the right chart or graph.
- Check to see if the question asks for an approximation. If so, you can safely estimate numbers by rounding off.
CAUTION: When rounding off fractions, round the numerator and denominator in the same direction (either up or down); otherwise you'll distort the value of the fraction. - Don't confuse percentages with raw numbers. Always ask yourself which type of number the chart or graph is providing, and which type the question is asking for.
- It's okay to rely on visual approximations when it comes to reading bar graphs and line charts. The test-makers are not out to test your eyesight. So if two or more answer choices come very, very close to your solution, rest assured that you needn't estimate values more precisely. Instead, go back to square 1; you've made some other mistake along the way.
- Take 15-30 seconds right up front to assimilate and make sense of the chart, graph, or table — and be sure to read all the information around it. (You might need to scroll vertically to view all the information.) Get a sense for what the variables are and how they relate to one another — before you tackle the questions.
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