Quant Basics

Class Sessions
 Table of Contents

Topic Name Page

How to go about this book ? 3

Arithmetic Part 1 4-39

Arithmetic Part 2 40-73

Statistics 74-109

Numbers 110-145

Algebra 146-182

Coordinate Geometry & Graphs 183-232

PnC , Probability 233-278

Inequality & Modulus 279-321

How should you go about this book ?

This book covers all the relevant concepts that are asked in the examination. We
have included at least 20 questions along with explanations for each topic so as to
make you comfortable with the concept and application understanding.

STEPS to go through a particular topic :

STEP 1 : Read the concepts and solve the questions from this book.Make notes
along the way.

STEP 2 : Go through the Basic Video of this topic. This Basic Video will cover all the
concepts and questions that you have gone through in STEP 1.
(VIDEO EXPLANATION)

STEP 3 (OPTIONAL) : If you feel that you need to solve more questions , you can
use the ‘Quant Basics - Topic Wise Extra Questions’ book. Every topic has 40
questions. TEXT BASED EXPLANATIONS are provided in the latter part of the book.
In order to get more clarity on these questions , we have also provided a VIDEO
EXPLANATION to all these questions.
 Arithmetic Part 1 Concepts
Percentages
Percentage : Per + Cent
Percentage means Per 100
For example :
25 1
1. 25% means 25 per 100 → 100
→ 4
125 5
2. 125% means 125 per 100 → 100 → 4
Fraction to % equivalent conversion :
% Fraction

100 1
1

50 1
2

33.33 1
3

25 1
4

20 1
5

16.66 1
6

14.28 1
7

12.5 1
8

11.11 1
9

10 1
10

9.09 1
11

8.33 1
12

1 1
* It is advisable to know the fractions from 1
to 20
and their equivalent %.*
If you have a fraction, then multiplying the fraction by 100 gives equivalent %.

Fraction - - - - (× 100)- - - - -> Equivalent % Value

5
4
- - - - - - - -(× 100) - -- - -> 125

if you have % value , then dividing the value by 100 gives an equivalent fraction.

1
% Value - - - - -( 100 )- - - - > Equivalent Fraction
1 5
125 - - - - - - - - ( 100 ) - - - -> 4

a% of b = b% of a. (Important Relation)
120% of 25 => 25% of 120

1
We convert this way as we know that 25% is equivalent to 4
.
1
25% of 120 = > 4
of 120 => 30.

Application of Equivalent % :
1
100% of 120 => ( 1 ) of 120 => 120
1
50% of 120 => ( 2 ) of 120 => 60
1 1
83.33% of 120 => (50% + 33.33%) of 120 => ( 2 + 3
) of 120 => 60 + 40 => 100
2
66.66% of 120 => ( 3 ) of 120 => 80
3 1 3
150% of 120 => ( 2 ) of 120 => 180 { 50% is 2
, So 150% is 2
}
1
10% of 120 => ( 10 ) of 120 => 12
7 1 7
175% of 120 => ( 4 ) of 120 => 210 { 25% is 4
, So 175% is 4
}
1
120% of 33.33 => 33.33% of 120 => ( 3 ) of 120 => 40 {a% of b = b% of a}
PLEASE NOTE THAT WE WILL BE USING DECIMAL AND FRACTIONS INTERCHANGEABLY.

Example :
3
150% => 1.5 => 2

5
125% => 1.25 => 4

6
So, 120% of 120 can be written as 1.2 × 120 OR 5
×120 .

Sometimes, we may use fractional form or decimal form depending on the ease and
comfortability by which a question can be solved. It is advisable to know both these forms.
There are 4 types in which a question on % can be asked.

𝑉𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝐴𝑠𝑘𝑒𝑑
Answer to all these questions will be : 𝐵𝑎𝑠𝑒
× 100

Say A = 4 , B = 5.

𝐴
1. A is what % of B ? => ( 𝐵 ) × 100
The Value of A is compared to B , where B is the Base.

A is 80% of B.

𝐵
2. B is what % of A ? => ( 𝐴 ) × 100
The Value of B is compared to A , where A is the Base.

B is 125% of A.

𝑃𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝐴 & 𝐵 𝐵 −𝐴

3. A is what % less than B ? => ( 𝐵
)× 100 => ( 𝐵
)× 100

Please remember that the Numerator here will be (B - A). The question asks A is what % less
than B. So , we are first finding ‘A’ is what less than ‘B’ and then comparing it with the base ,
which is B here. With respect to values here , A is 1 (5 - 4 OR B - A) less than B.

A is 20 % less than B.

𝑃𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝐴 & 𝐵 𝐵 −𝐴

4. B is what % more than A ? => ( 𝐵
)× 100 => ( 𝐴
)× 100
Please remember that the Numerator here will be (B - A). The question asks B is what % more
than A. So , we are first finding ‘B’ is what more than ‘A’ and then comparing it with the base ,
which is A here. With respect to values here , B is 1 (5 - 4 OR B - A) more than A.

B is 25 % more than A.

We are taking “Positive difference between A & B” just to make our calculations easier.
When you know A is less than B , there’s no need to take a negative difference and complicate
things.
Relation between “ % of “ and “% more than or %less than “ : ( IMPORTANT )

‘A is 80% of B’ is the same as saying ‘A is 20% less than B’ and vice-versa.

Example :
If a question says ‘A is 40% of B’ , you can just say that ‘A is 60% less than B’.
Similarly, if a question says ‘A is 30% less than B’ , you can say that ‘A is 70% of B’.

VISUALISATION :
‘A is 80% of B’
Basically , we are comparing A to B. Say B(Base) is 100%. So , A is 80 % of 100% => 80%.
Hence, A is 20% less than B.

‘B is 125% of A’ is the same as saying ‘B is 25% more than A’ and vice-versa.

Example :
If a question says ‘B is 140% of A’ , you can just say that ‘B is 40% more than A’.
Similarly, if a question says ‘B is 50% more than A’ , you can say that ‘B is 150% of A’.

VISUALISATION :
‘B is 125% of A’
Basically , we are comparing B to A. Say A(Base) is 100%. So , B is 125 % of 100% => 125%.
Hence, B is 25% more than A.

If a question says ‘B is 240% of A’ , you can just say that ‘B is 140% more than A’.
Similarly, if a question says ‘B is 150% more than A’ , you can say that ‘B is 250%(100%+150%)
of A’.
General Concepts :

1. X is increased by 10% -> X + 10%(X) -> X (1 + 10%) -> X (100% + 10%) -> 110%X

Here, the subtle information is that X is increased by 10% of X. Please don’t make the habit of
interpreting this information as X + 10%. It’s absolutely wrong !

2. X is decreased by 10% -> X - 10%(X) -> X (1 - 10%) -> X(100% - 10%) -> 90%X

If you understand the statement below , life would be way easier for you !!!

3. X is increased by 10% and then the new value is decreased by 10%

-> X (1 + 10%)(1 - 10%) -> 110% 90% X

Explanation : X is increased by 10% -> X (1 + 10%) .

What’s the new value ? -> X (1 + 10%) .
This value is decreased by 10%. How do we write it ?
-> X (1 + 10%) - 10% X (1 + 10%) => X (1 + 10%)(1 - 10%)

4. X is increased by 350% -> X(1 + 350%) -> 450%X

5.If the initial population of a town is 𝑃𝑖𝑛 and it is increasing X% per annum.

𝑛
Then , Population after n years : 𝑃𝑖𝑛(1 + 𝑥%)
6. If the final population of a town is P and it has increased X% per annum for the past n years.
𝑛 𝑃
Then, the population n years ago will be : 𝑝𝑖𝑛(1 + 𝑥%) = P -> 𝑝𝑖𝑛 = 𝑛
(1+𝑥%)
% change :

4 ------------------------> 5

𝑃𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 1
% change = 𝐵𝑎𝑠𝑒
× 100 = 4
× 100 = 25 [FORMULA USAGE]

4 ------------------------> 5
1
(1) → 4
→ +25%

When 4 becomes 5, there’s a change of 1. To be precise, there’s a change of 1 with respect to

1
the initial value of 4. So , % wise , there’s a change of 1 over a base of 4 i.e 4
→ +25%
We can take the change without the signs(+ and -) as well.

When we know there’s an increase , we can just put a + sign in our final answer.

5 -------------------------> 3
2
(2) → 5
→ -40%

𝑃𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 2
% change = 𝐵𝑎𝑠𝑒
× 100 = 5
× 100 = 40 [FORMULA USAGE]

When 5 becomes 3 , there’s a change of 2. To be precise, there’s a change of 2 with respect to

2
the base of 5 . So , % wise , there’s a change of 2 over a base of 5 i.e 5
→ -40%

When we know there’s a decrease , we can just put a - sign in our final answer.
How to assumes values :

11
1. X increased by 10% → X + 10%(X) → X (1 + 10%) → X( 10 )
As we know that the denominator is 10 , X can be assumed as some multiple of 10 for
simplifying calculations.

X Increased by 10% Ratio remains same

10 11 10:11

20 22 10:11

2. X is increased by 25% and then the new value is decreased by 25%.

X ------------------------> Y -------------------------> Z
+ 25% - 25%

Y = X (1 + 25%)
5
Y = X( 4 ).
Let's say X is 4 then Y will be 5 => X : Y = 4 : 5

Z = Y(1 - 25%)
3
Z = Y( 4 ).
Let’s say Y is 4 then Z will be 3 => Y : Z = 4 : 3

We are multiplying the first ratio by 4 and the second ratio by 5 so as to make the value of Y
same in both the ratios.

X : Y : Z => X : Y : Z
4 : 5 (x 4) 16 : 20 : 15
4 : 3 (x 5)
Questions :

1. Each week, a clothing salesperson receives a commission equal to 15 percent of the first $500
in sales and 20 percent of all additional sales that week. What commission would the
salesperson receive on total sales for the week of $1,300 ?

SOLUTION :

Commission for first $500 sale = 15% of $500 = $75

Commission for the remaining sale = 20% of ($1300 - $500) = 20% of $800 = $160
Therefore, total commission = $75 + $160 = $235

2. When the cost of petroleum increases by 50%, a man reduces his annual consumption by
20%. Find the percentage change in his annual expenditure.

SOLUTION :

Expenditure = Price x Consumption

Let Initial Price = 2 and Initial Consumption = 5 . So, Initial Exp = 2 x 5 = 10

Now Final Price = 3 and Final Consumption = 5 - 1 = 4. So, Final Exp = 15 x 4 = 12

12−10 2
% change = 10
= 10
= 20%

3. In an examination passing percentage is 40. A obtained 72 out of 200. By what percent did he
fail ?

SOLUTION :
Passing Marks = 40% of 200 = 80
Marks Obtained = 72
So, the student fails by 8 marks, when the total marks are 200.
8
% by which the student failed = 200
= 4%
4. The length of a rectangle is increased by 60% . By what percent would the width have to be
decreased to maintain the same area?

SOLUTION :
Area = length x width
Initial length = 5 , Final length = 5 + 3 = 8
Can we assume some value of Area knowing the initial length was 5 and the final length is 8?
=> We can assume the area to be a multiple of 5 and 8 as Area = 5 x width1 and Area = 8 x
width2
Say , the Area = 40. Initial width = 8 , Final width = 5 + 3 = 5
So, there’s a decrease of 3 over a base of 8 i.e 37.5% decrease.

5. A technician makes a round-trip to and from a certain service centre by the same route. If the
technician completes the drive to the centre and then completes 10 percent of the drive from
the centre, what percent of the round-trip has the technician completed ?

SOLUTION :
Assuming the round trip is 100 miles, then each trip is 50 miles.
Drive to the centre = 50 miles
10% of the drive back = 10% of 50 = 5 miles
50 + 5
% trip completed = 100
= 55%

6. Of the land owned by a farmer, 90 percent was cleared for planting. Of the cleared land, 40
percent was planted with soybeans and 50 percent of the cleared land was planted with wheat.
If the remaining 720 acres of cleared land was planted with corn, how many acres did the
farmer own?

SOLUTION :
Let the farmer have 100 acres of land.
Land Cleared for planting = 90 acres
Of the cleared land, soybean plantation = 40% of 90 = 36 acres
Of the cleared land, Wheat plantation = 50% of 90 = 45 acres
Remaining cleared land = 90 - (36 + 45) = 9 acres
Here, there’s 9 acres of Remaining cleared land when there’s 100 acres of land.
So, when there’s 720 acres of Remaining cleared land , there will be 8000 acres of land.
720
How? => 9
× 100 => 8000
 Profit, Loss and Discount

This topic is an application of percentages.

Let's say you make a shirt at a cost of 800 and put an MRP tag of 1000. Now, you're selling this
thing at a 10% discount on the MRP.

800 (Cost : CP) - - - -> 1000 (MRP : MP) - - - - > 900 (Selling Price : SP)
(-10%)

Profit(P) , Selling Price , Cost Price

P (Profit) = SP - CP = 900 - 800 = 100 .…………… (i)
𝑆𝑃 − 𝐶𝑃
Profit % = 𝐶𝑃
× 100 = 12.5 …………. (ii)
Unless stated otherwise, Profit is always with respect to the investment or CP.
SP =CP(1 + P%) ……………. (iii)

Loss(L), Selling Price , Cost Price

Let’s say CP = 800, SP = 700

L (Loss) = CP - SP = 100 …………….. (i)

𝐶𝑃 − 𝑆𝑃
Loss% = 𝐶𝑃
× 100 = 12.5 ………….. (ii)
Unless stated otherwise, Loss is always with respect to the investment or CP.
SP =CP(1 - L%) …………….. (iii)

Markup (m), Cost Price , Marked Price

markup(m) = MP - CP …………….. (i)

𝑀𝑃 − 𝐶𝑃
m% = 𝐶𝑃
× 100 ………….. (ii)
Mark up is always with respect to the Cost Price.
MP = CP(1 + m%) …………….. (iii)
Discount (D), Selling Price , Marked Price

D = MP - SP …………….. (i)
𝑀𝑃 − 𝑆𝑃
D% = 𝑀𝑃
× 100 ………….. (ii)
Discount is always with respect to Marked Price.
SP = MP(1 - D%) …………….. (iii)

Questions

1. A trader marks his goods at 20 percent above cost price and allows a discount of 10 percent
for cash payment. What profit percent does he make if he is paid via cash?
(Assume Values and also try by making equations).

SOLUTION :

CP ------------------------> MP -------------------------> SP
+ 20% - 10%

1
MP = CP(1 + 5
).
Let's say CP is 5. Then, the MP will be 6.
CP : MP = 5 : 6

1
SP = MP(1 - 10
).
Let’s say MP is 10 .Then, SP will be 9.
MP : SP = 10 : 9

CP : MP : SP CP : MP : SP
5 : 6 (x 5) =======> 25 : 30 : 27
10 : 9 (x 3)

2
There’s a profit of 2 over a base of 25 i.e 25
=> 8%.
2. Two horses were sold for Rs. 12,000 each, one at a loss of 20% and the other at a gain of 20%.
The entire transaction resulted in

A. No loss, no gain
B. Loss of Rs. 1000
C. Gain of Rs. 1000
D. Gain of Rs. 2000
E. Loss of 666.67

SOLUTION :

Total selling price = 12000 × 2 = 24000.

One horse was sold at a loss of 20% => SP = 80% of CP => 12000 = 80% CP => CP = 15000
One horse was sold at a gain of 20% =>SP = 120% of CP => 12000 = 120% CP => CP = 10000

Total Cost price = 15000 + 10000 = 25000.

Hence, there’s a loss of 1000. {CP - SP = 25000 - 24000}

ANSWER B

3. A man sells an article at a profit of 25%. If he had bought it at 20% less and sold it for Rs.
10.50 less, he would have gained 30%. Find the C.P. of the article.

SOLUTION :

Let Old CP = x , Old SP = 1.25x

New CP = 0.8x , New SP = 1.25x - 10.50
Given , New SP = 130% New CP
=> 1.25x - 10.5 = 1.3 × 0.8x
=> 0.21x = 10.5
=> x = 50
4. Cheryl purchased 5 identical hollow pine doors and 6 identical solid oak doors for the house
she is building. The regular price of each solid oak door was twice the regular price of each
hollow pine door. However, Cheryl was given a discount of 25% off the regular price of each
solid oak door. If the regular price of each hollow pine door was $40, what was the total price of
all 11 doors?

SOLUTION :

Since the regular price of each hollow pine door = 40 dollars, the regular price of each solid oak
door is (2)×(40) = 80 dollars.

With a 25% discount, each solid oak door is sold for (80)(1 - 25%) = 60 dollars.

So, the six oak doors cost 6 x 60 = 360 dollars, and the five pine doors cost 5 x 40 = 200 dollars.
Thus, the total is 560 dollars.

5. A bicycle store purchased two bicycles, one for $250 and the other for $375, and sold both
bicycles at a total gross profit of $250. If the store sold one of the bicycles for $450, which of the
following could be the store's gross profit from the sale of the other bicycle?

A. $75
B. $100
C. $125
D. $150
E. $175

SOLUTION :
If the first bicycle was sold for $450, then
Profit on first bicycle = 450 – 250 = 200
Hence, profit on second bicycle = 250 – 200 = 50 (not in the option)
If the second bicycle was sold for $450, then
Profit on second bicycle = 450 – 375 = 75
Hence, profit on first bicycle = 250 – 75 = 175

ANSWER E
6.A photography dealer ordered 60 Model X cameras to be sold for $250 each, which represents
a 20 percent markup over the dealer’s initial cost for each camera. Of the cameras ordered, 6
were never sold and were returned to the manufacturer for a refund of 50 percent of the
dealer's initial cost. What was the dealer's approximate profit or loss as a percent of the dealer’s
initial cost for the 60 cameras?

A. 7% loss
B. 13% loss
C. 7% profit
D. 13% profit
E. 15% profit

SOLUTION :
625
SP of each camera = 250 = CP (1 + 20%) => CP = 3
625
CP of 60 cameras = 60 × 3
= 12500
SP of 54 cameras = 54 × 250 = 13500

625
***SP of 6 cameras = 6× 3
(1 - 50%) = 625
Understand that he got a refund of 50% of CP would mean that he sold these 6 cameras at a
50% loss.

[ Related Example : He paid $10(CP) for each camera and got only $5(SP) when he sold each
camera ]

Total SP = 14125
Total CP = 12500
1625 13
So, there’s a profit of 1625 over 12500 i.e 12500
= 100
= 13%

ANSWER D
 Simple interest and Compound interest

This topic is an application of percentages.

Simple interest :
If you are taking a loan of 10000(Principal) from Bank 1 with a simple interest 10% (R%) per
annum, then

1st year 2nd year 3rd year

Simple interest SI 10% of 10000 10% of 10000 10% of 10000

for 1000 1000 1000
R% of P R% of P R% of P
P x R% P x R% P x R%

Simple interest after one year = 1000 = P x R%

Simple interest after two years = 2 x 1000 = 2 x P x R%
Simple interest after three years = 3 x 1000 = 3 x P x R%
Simple interest after n years = n x 1000 = n x P x R%

Simple interest of principal P at R% per annum rate after n years will be,

SI = n x P x R%
𝑛𝑃𝑅
SI = 100
 1st year 2nd year 3rd year

Amount (A) 10000 + 1000 10000 + 2 x 1000 10000 + 3 x 1000

after P + SI1 P + SI2 P + SI3
𝑃𝑅 2𝑃𝑅 3𝑃𝑅
P + 100 P + 100 P + 100

So if you take P amount as loan from the bank initially at R% of rate per annum for n years, then
after n years , you have to pay the amount A.

𝑛𝑃𝑅
A=P+ 100
= P (1 + nR%) , after n years.

-> **Simple Interest for each year remains the same if the rate is constant.

-> Amount grows proportionally i.e in Arithmetic Progression.

10,000 - -(1st year)- -> 11,000 - -(2nd year)- -> 12,000 - -(3rd year)- -> 13,000

-> Simple Interest grows proportionally i.e in Arithmetic Progression.

Simple Interest for 1 year = 1000

Simple Interest for 2 years = 2000

Simple Interest for 3 years = 3000

Compound Interest :
Now If you are taking a loan of 10000 (P) from Bank 2 with the compound interest 10% (R%) per
annum, then

1st year 2nd year 3rd year

Compound interest 10% of 10000 10% of (10000 + 1000) 10% of (10000 + 1000 + 1100)
(CI) for 1000 1100 1210
PR% 2 2 3
PR% + P(𝑅%) PR% + P(𝑅%) + P(𝑅%)

Total Amount after 10000 + 1000 11000 + 1100 12100 + 1210

11000 12100 13310

In the compound interest case , both Amount and Compound Interest grow at the same rate if
the rate remains constant.

CI for 1st year = 1000

CI for 2nd year = 1100
CI for 3rd year = 1210
Every year , CI grows by 10%.

Same is the case with Amount.

10,000 - -(1st year)- -> 11,000 - -(2nd year)- -> 12,100 - -(3rd year)- -> 13,310.
As you can see, Amount also grows by 10%.

Amount and Compound Interest grow exponentially i.e in Geometric Progression.

Amount after n years will be
𝑛
A = P (1 + 𝑅%)

𝑛
P + 𝐶𝐼𝑛 = P (1 + 𝑅%)
Compound Interest after n years will be
𝑛
𝐶𝐼𝑛 = P {(1 + 𝑅%) - 1}

Simple interest and Compound interest are the same for the first year provided both have the
same principal and same interest rate.
Non - Annual Compounding :
Case 1 :
Let’s say P = 10000, R = 12% per annum compounded semi-annually, and the amount or sum or
principal is invested for 1 year. Then we have to divide the year in 2 compounding periods as the
interest will be generated after every 6 months.
12%
Rate becomes 2
= 6 % for each compounding duration of 6 months.
So, rate = 6% , n or the number of compounding periods = 2 , P = 10000

Amount after 1 year will be

2×1
12%
A = 10000 (1 + 2
)

Case 2 :
Let’s say P = 10000, R = 12% per annum compounded quarterly , and the amount or sum or
principal is invested for 1 year. Then we have to divide the year in 4 compounding periods as the
interest will be generated after every 3 months.
12%
Rate becomes 4
= 3 % for each compounding duration of 3 months.
So, rate = 3% , n or the number of compounding periods = 4 , P = 10000

Amount after 1 year will be

4×1
12%
A = 10000 (1 + 4
)

Case 3 :
Let’s say P = 10000, R = 12% per annum compounded monthly , and the amount or sum or
principal is invested for 2 years. Then we have to divide the year in 12 compounding periods as
the interest will be generated after every month.
12%
Rate becomes 12
= 1 % for each compounding duration of 1 month.
So, rate = 1% , n or the number of compounding periods = 24 , P = 10000
Amount after 2 years will be
12 × 2
12%
A = 10000 (1 + 12
)
Apply the same logic in other questions of non-annual compounding.
Questions

1. A person invests an equal amount of money in two investment schemes for two years. In the
first investment scheme, he earns an interest at 10% per annum simple interest and in the
second investment scheme he earns an interest at 10% per annum compounded annually. What
is the difference in the interest earned under the two investment schemes at the end of the
second year? (The amount the person invests in each scheme is $X.)

SOLUTION :

Simple Interest for each year remains the same.

Simple Interest and Compound Interest for the 1st year remains the same.

SI CI

For 1st year 10% of X = 0.1X 10% of X = 0.1X

For 2nd year 10% of X = 0.1X 10% of (X + 0.1X) = 0.1X +

0.01X

SI for 2 years = 0.2X

CI for 2 years = 0.2X + 0.01X
Difference in the interest earned = 0.01X

2. What dollar amount invested at the rate of 20 percent per annum compounded annually for
2 years yields an interest of $176 ?

SOLUTION :

Let x be the amt. invested

Then we can write using standard formula
Amount - Principal = Interest
20 2
𝑥(1 + 100
) − 𝑥 = 176
2
𝑥(1. 20) − 𝑥 = 176
𝑥(1. 44 − 1) = 176
x = 400
3. A bank offers an interest of 5% per annum compounded annually on all its deposits. If
$10,000 is deposited, what will be the ratio of the interest earned in the 4th year to the interest
earned in the 5th year?

A. 1 : 5
B. 625 : 3125
C. 100 : 105
4 4
D. 100 : 105
E. 725 : 3225

SOLUTION :

The interest earned in the 1st year = $500

In case of Compound interest , interest grows at the same rate as that of principal.
The interest earned in the 2nd year = $500 × 1.05
2
The interest earned in the 3rd year = $500 × 1. 05
3
The interest earned in the 4th year = $500 × 1. 05
4
The interest earned in the 5th year = $500 × 1. 05

3
500 × 1.05 1 100
4 = 1.05
= 105
.
500 × 1.05

ANSWER C
4. Divya invested $8,000 for one year at a simple annual interest rate of 6 percent and invested
$10,000 for one year at an annual interest rate of 8 percent compounded semiannually. What is
the total amount of interest that Divya earned on the two investments?

A. $880
B. $1,088
C. $1,253
D. $1,280
E. $1,296

SOLUTION :

You can avoid calculation of compounded interest here.

6
$8,000 for one year at a simple annual interest rate of 6 percent = 100
× 8000 = $480.

If $10,000 were invested for one year at a simple annual interest rate of 8 percent, then it
8
would earn 100
× 10000 = $800. Since the interest is compounded semiannually, then it
would earn interest on interest and actual interest would be higher.

So, the answer should be slightly more than $480 + $800 = $1,280. Only E fits.

ANSWER E
5. A 2-year certificate of deposit is purchased for K dollars. If the certificate earns interest at an
annual rate of 6 percent compounded quarterly, which of the following represents the value, in
dollars, of the certificate at the end of 2 years?

2
A. k(1. 06)
8
B. k(1. 06)
2
C. k(1. 015)
8
D. k(1. 015)
4
E. k(1. 03)

SOLUTION :

Annual Rate of interest = 6%

6
Quarterly rate of interest= 4
% = 1.5%

Now, periods of compounding in 2 years = 8 ( 8 quarters )

8
Thus the value, in dollars, of the certificate at the end of 2 years is k(1. 015)

ANSWER D
6. The value of an investment increases by p% each month. If the investment was worth x
dollars initially and y dollars after one month, then in terms of x and y, how much was it worth
after two months?

SOLUTION :

We can create the following equation:

𝑝
y = x(1 + 100
) ( After 1 month )

The above is the equation for the price at the end of the first month.
So, after two months with respect to initial value x dollars , the price should be
𝑝 𝑝 𝑝 2
x(1 + 100
)(1 + 100
) or x(1 + 100
).

𝑝 𝑝 𝑦
Since y = x (1 + 100
), we see that 1 + 100
= 𝑥
.
Thus, the price after two months is
𝑝 2 𝑦 2
2
𝑦
x(1 + 100
) = x( 𝑥 ) = 𝑥
.
 Ratios

If a : b = 3 : 5 , then it is not necessary that a = 3 and b = 5.

We assume the actual value to be

A = 3k (some multiple of 3)
B = 5k (some multiple of 5)

**Multiply OR dividing a ratio with ‘some constant number’ won’t affect the ratio.**
[We will be using this application more often]

Addition and Subtraction by some constant number may change the ratio.

1. a : b = 1 : 2 and b : c = 2 : 3. Find a : b : c.

SOLUTION :
a:b b:c
1:2 2:3

a:b:c
1:2:3

2. a : b = 1 : 2 and b : c = 4 : 3. Find a : b : c.

SOLUTION :

As the value of b differs in both the ratios , our intent is to make the value of b same in both the
ratios.
Hence, we multiply the first ratio by 2.
a:b b:c
1 : 2 (x2) 4:3

a:b:c
2:4:3
3. a : b = 1 : 2 and b : c = 5 : 3. Find a : b : c.

SOLUTION :
As the value of b differs in both the ratios , our intent is to make the value of b same in both the
ratios.
Hence, we multiply the first ratio by 5 and the second ratio by 2.

a:b b:c
1 : 2 (x5) 5 : 3 (x2)

a:b:c
5 : 10 : 6

𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
4. If 2
= 3
= 4
, Find a : b : c.

SOLUTION :
a:b=2:3
b:c=3:4

a:b:c=2:3:4

5. If 2a = 3b = 4c , Find a : b : c.

SOLUTION :

a : b = 3 : 2 - - - - - - - (Multiply this ratio by 2)

b:c=4:3

a:b:c=6:4:3
 𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 1
6. If 𝑏
= 𝑐
= 𝑑
= 2
, find a : b : c : d .

SOLUTION :
c:d=1:2
b:c=1:2
a:b=1:2

a:b:c:d
1:2
1:2 (x 2)
1:2 (x 4)

a:b:c:d
1:2:4:8

1 1 1
7. If a : b : c = 3
: 4
: 6
, Simplify .

SOLUTION :
As 3,4, and 6 are in the denominator , in order to simplify , we can multiply the ratio by 12.
Hence ,
a:b:c
4:3:2
Variations :

1. Direct Variation : 𝑥 α 𝑦 —> x = ky [α - proportional sign]

𝑥
𝑦
= k = constant

𝑥1 𝑥2
𝑦1
= 𝑦2

1
2. Inverse Variation : 𝑥 α 𝑦
—> xy = k = constant

𝑥1𝑦1 = 𝑥2𝑦2

𝑦 𝑘𝑦 𝑥𝑧
3. Mixed Variation : 𝑥 α 𝑧
—> x = 𝑧
=> 𝑦
= k = constant

𝑥1𝑧1 𝑥2𝑧2
𝑦1
= 𝑦2

Work done (w) is proportional to number of people (m), rate (r) and time (t).

=> 𝑤 α 𝑚 𝑟 𝑡
𝑤
So 𝑚𝑟𝑡
= k = constant
𝑤1 𝑤2
=> 𝑚1 𝑟1 𝑡1
= 𝑚2 𝑟2 𝑡2
Mixtures:

First of all, keep in mind: this is a relatively rare kind of problem.Nevertheless, they do arise
occasionally, and it’s good to be familiar with them.

Let’s think for a moment about “concentration” — not the mental quality, but in the chemical
solution sense. What does it mean to say we have a “400 units of a 6% phosphoric acid
solution”? Whatever those units are, the total amount of mixture or solution is 400 units, and
of that, 6% is pure phosphoric acid. 6% of 400 is 24, so we know we have 24 units of pure
phosphoric acid. That is the amount of concentrate we have in our solution.
(Those “units” could be units of volume or units of mass, but that’s far more detail that you
need to know on the GMAT).

The two equations :

The secret to any mixture or concentration problem is to use the two equations. First is the
amount of stuff, the total volume. This is called the volume equation.

The basic idea is:

This makes sense when you think about it: the volume of the resultant solution had to come
from the volumes of the two things we mixed.

The second equation is similar. This concerns, specifically, the amount of concentrate, of
whatever the chemical or substance is of which we have a solution. The amount of concentrate
that winds up in the resultant solution must come from somewhere. It must come from the
amount of concentrate in the two solutions mixed.

If you had trouble with the problems above before, go back to them, and see if you can set up
both of these equations and solve them.
Questions

1. A bag contains $ 600 in the form of one-dollar, 50 cents & 25-cents coins in the ratio 3 : 4 : 12.
Find the number of 25 cent coins.

SOLUTION :

Value 100 cent 50 cent 25 cent

Number of coins 3k 4k 12k

Total values 300k 200k 300k

Total = 800k = $600 = 60000 cents

So, k = 75
Hence, number of 25 cent coins = 12k = 900
2. Bob just filled his car's gas tank with 20 gallons of gasoline, a mixture consisting of 5% ethanol
and 95% gasoline. If his car runs best on a mixture consisting of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline,
how many gallons of ethanol must be added into the gas tank for his car to achieve optimum
performance ?

SOLUTION :

gases Ethanol (E) Gasoline (G) Total (T)

earlier 5 (1) 95 (19) 20

optimum 10 (1) 90 (9)

Let's say we added x gallons of ethanol to the earlier mixture.

Ethanol earlier = 5% of 20 = 1 , Rest will be gasoline = 19
So, E : G = 1 : 19
Let's say we added x gallons of ethanol to the earlier mixture.

E : G
1+ x : 19

Now this mixture has become 1 : 9.

Hence, we can say that

1+𝑥 1
=> 19
= 9

10
=> x = 9
gallons
3. A milkman mixes 20 litres of water with 80 litres of milk. After selling one-fourth of this
mixture, he adds water to replenish the quantity that he had sold. What is the current ratio of
water to milk?

A. 2:3
B. 1:2
C. 1:3
D. 3:4
E. 1:1

SOLUTION :

Total quantity = 100 litres. The ratio of water to milk = 1:4

25% is sold.
Remaining = 75 litres (W : M = 1 : 4 )
Water = k , Milk = 4k , So 75 = k + 4k = 5k => k = 15

So, Water = 15 litres , Milk = 60 litres

Now 25 litres of water is added.

So finally , we have 40 litres of water and 60 litres of milk.

The ratio of water to milk becomes 2:3

ANSWER A
4. A bottle is 80% full. The liquid in the bottle consists of 60% guava juice and 40% pineapple
juice. The remainder of the bottle is then filled with 70 mL of rum. How much guava juice is in
the bottle?

A. 168 mL
B. 170 mL
C. 200 mL
D. 210 mL
E. 250 mL

SOLUTION :

The bottle is filled 80% to capacity, and then 70 ml of rum makes the bottle 100% filled to
capacity.

So, 70ml represents 20% of the capacity. 70 = 20% of Capacity => Capacity = 350 ml.

So, BEFORE the rum was added, there was 280 ml of liquid in the bottle (i.e., if 70ml represents
20% of capacity, then 280 ml of liquid represents 80% of capacity)

We're told that 60% of the liquid is guava juice.

60% of 280 ml = 168 ml

ANSWER A
5. The ratio of the prices of two houses was 16:23. Two years later when the price of the first
had risen by 10% and that of the second by Rs. 477, the ratio of prices became 11:20. What was
the original price of the first house ?

A. Rs. 848
B. Rs 1060
C. Rs 1080
D. Rs 1144
E. Rs 1219

SOLUTION :

Let the first and the second houses be priced 16x and 23x respectively.
The final values of the first and the second house will be 16x(1 + 10%)=>17.6x and 23x + 477.
The final ratio is 11: 20.
17.6𝑥 11
So, 23𝑥 + 477
= 20
Solving for x, we get x = 53.
So the values of the houses are Rs. 848 and Rs. 1,219 respectively.

ANSWER A
6. From a total of Rs. 159000 , Rs. 5000 is to be divided between A and B in the ratio 2: 3. The
rest of the money is to be divided between A, B and C in the ratio 5 : 3 : 3. How much money did
B get ?

A. Rs 30,000
B. Rs 35,000
C. Rs 40,000
D. Rs 42,000
E. Rs 45,000

SOLUTION :

Rs. 5,000 is to be divided between A and B in the ratio of 2 : 3, A = 2k , B = 3k

So , 5k = 5000 => k = 1000
A's share = 2k = Rs. 2,000
B's share = 3k = Rs. 3,000

Amount left is 1,54,000 and it is to be divided among A,B,C in the ratio of 5:3:3.

A = 5l , B = 3l , C = 3l
So, 11l = 154000 => l = 14000
A's share = 5l = Rs. 70,000
B's share = 3l = Rs. 42,000
C's share = 3l = Rs. 42,000

B's total share = Rs. 45,000 (3,000 + 42,000)

ANSWER E
 Arithmetic Part 2 Concepts

Time and Work

Distance = Speed x time

Example :
If you are travelling with a speed of 50 km/hr for 2 hrs , then distance travelled will be 50 x 2 =
100 km.

Work = Rate x Time

Similarly , If you are reading 4 books in 1 day and you have 5 days , then you will read 20 books.
Rate = 4 books per day , time = 5 days , Work = 4 x 5 = 20 books

Both relations( Distance and Work equations described above ) are one and the same thing.

Time (days) Rate (books/days) = Work(Books

read)

5 4 20
1. If A does a piece of work in 20 days and B does the same work in 30 days, then how many
days will it take to complete the same work if both A and B do the work together ?

SOLUTION :
As Work done by A is 20*rate of A and Work done by B is 30*rate of B and the work done is
same in both the cases , we can assume the work to be multiple of 20 and 30. Let’s assume the
work to be 60.
Rate of A comes out to be 3 units / day.
Rate of B comes out to be 2 units / day.
When they work together , they will do 5 units/day and they need to finish 60 units of work in
‘d’ days.
So , Time x Rate = Work => d x 5 = 60 => d = 12 days.

days units/day units

A 20 3 60

B 30 2 60

A+B d 3+2 60
=5

Alternate Method :

If we assume the work to be 1 unit.

Rate of A = 1/20 units per day
Rate of B = 1/30 units per day
If they work together , their combined rate will be (1/20 + 1/30) units per day.
Time x Rate = Work => d x (1/20 + 1/30) = 1 => d×(1/12) = 1 => d = 12 days.
2. If A does a piece of work in 12 days, B does the same work in 15 days, and C does the same
work in 20 days , then how many days will it take to complete the same work if A, B and C work
together ?

SOLUTION :
We can assume the work to be multiple of 12 , 15 and 20 i.e 60

days units/day units

A 12 5 60

B 15 4 60

C 20 3 60

A+B+C ? 12 60

Time x Rate = Work => ? x 12 = 60 => ? = 5 days.

3. If A builds a wall in 25 days and B destroys the same wall in 50 days , then in how many days
will it take to complete the wall if both A and B build the wall together?

SOLUTION :
We can assume the work to be multiple of 25 and 50 i.e 50 units.

days units/day units

A 25 +2 50

B 50 -1 50

A+B ? +1 50

Time x Rate = Work => ? x 1 = 50 => ? = 50 days.

4. Four men working together all day can finish a piece of work in 11 days ; but two of them
having other engagements can work only one half-time and quarter time respectively. How long
will it take them to complete the work?

SOLUTION :
If the rate of a single man is m then the total rate will be 4m.

time rate =Work

4 men 11 4m 44m

Let's say now the total time to complete the work will be t.

time rate =Work

1st man 𝑡 m 𝑚𝑡
2 2

2nd man 𝑡 m 𝑚𝑡
4 4

3rd and t 2m 2mt

4th man

Work remains the same.

𝑚𝑡 𝑚𝑡
So, 44𝑚 = 2
+ 4
+ 2𝑚𝑡
t = 16 days.
Questions

1. Two taps can fill a cistern in 20 minutes and 30 minutes. The first tap was opened initially for
x minutes after which the second tap was opened. If it took a total of 15 minutes for the tank to
be filled, what is the value of x?

SOLUTION :

Assume volume of the tank to be 600 units.

First tap takes 20 minutes (Rate : 30 units/minute)

Second tap takes 30 minutes (Rate : 20 units/minute)

Given data : The first tap was opened initially for x minutes
Total time taken to fill the tank was 15 minutes
So, both the taps were opened for (15- x) minutes together.

We know that the taps combined fill (20 + 30 units/minute = 50 units/minute)

From question stem, we can frame the equation

time × rate = work
30x + 50(15 - x) = 600

Solving for x,
30x + 750 - 50x = 600
750 - 600 = 50x - 30x
150 = 20x
x = 7.5 minutes
2. Machine A can complete a job in 12 hours and has worked for 4 hours on it. Machine B
2
operates at a rate that is 3
of machine A's rate. How many more hours does machine B need to
work alone to finish the remaining part of the job?

SOLUTION :

Let the total work be 36 units

Thus, rate of A is 3 units/hr ; rate of B is 2 units/hr
Work done by A in 4 Hours is = 4×3 = 12 Units, Remaining work is 24 Units.

𝑊𝑜𝑟𝑘 24
Time required by B to complete the work is = 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒
= 2
= 12 Hours

3. A alone can finish a piece of work in 10 days which B alone can finish in 15 days. If they work
together and finish it, then out of the total wages of $225, what’s the amount that A will get ?

SOLUTION :

Let, Total work = 30 Units (LCM of 10 and 15)

30
Work done by A in a day = 10
= 3 units
30
Work done by B in a day = 15
= 2 units
30
If they work together , time taken = 5
= 6 days

CONCEPT : Money is distributed in the same ratio as the ratio of work done.
Total Work by A = 6×3 = 18 units
Total Work by B = 12 units
So, money will also be divide in the same ratio i.e 18 : 12 => 3 : 2
Total Wages = 225 = 3k + 2k => k = 45
A’s wage = 3k = 3×45 = 135
4. Lattoo, Mattoo, and Gattoo are working on a job. They take 12, 15 and 18 days respectively to
complete the job. If Lattoo and Mattoo start off with the job and work for 4 days together
before being joined by Gattoo, what is the total time taken for the job ?

SOLUTION :
Let the number of units of work to be done is a LCM(12, 15, 18) = 180.
So Lattoo does 15 units per day, Mattoo does 12 units per day, and Gattoo does 10 units per day
working alone.
The first 4 days when Lattoo and Mattoo were working all by themselves, the amount of work
done is (12+15) x 4 = 108 units. The remaining work is 72 units.

When all the 3 are working together, 37 units of work are done in 1 day.

72
Hence, the rest of the work is completed in 37
days.
72 220
So total time taken = 4 + 37
= 37
days.

5. A and B are working on a job. A is the builder and B is the demolition man. A takes 10 days to
construct a wall completely. B takes 20 days to demolish it completely. How much time do they
take to build the wall completely, if they work on alternate days and A starts the job ?

SOLUTION :
Suppose the total number of units of job to be completed is 20 .
A builds 2 units every day.
B demolishes 1 unit everyday.

On the first 2 days, the total length of the wall that is built = (2 - 1) = 1 unit

Now most students make the mistake of arriving at the conclusion that to build 20 m of the
wall, the time required is 20 x 2 = 40 days.
( Think, if that was the case, who was working on the last day!! )

Every 2 days , there’s 1 unit of work done.

In 36 days , 18 units of the wall were completed.

On the 37th day , A will build 2 units and the work will get completed.
So, it will take 37 days to complete the wall.
 Distance, Speed and Time

Distance (d) = Speed (s) x time (t)

𝑑
𝑠 = 𝑡

1000 5
1 km/hr -----> 3600
m/s ----> 18 m/s
18
Similarly, 1 m/s = 5 km/hr

Proportionality

Case 1 - If distance is constant : ( d = constant )

=> The ratio of speeds will be equal to the inverse of the ratio of time taken.
=> 𝑠1: 𝑠2 = 𝑡2 : 𝑡1

Example :
Distance between Mumbai and Pune is 200 km. Abhi starts from Mumbai at a speed of 50
km/hr to Pune. While returning , He travels at a speed of 100 km/hr to Mumbai along the same
route.

We have two scenarios here

Scenario 1 : Mumbai to Pune
Distance = 𝑑1 = 200
Speed = 𝑠1 = 50
time = 𝑡1 = 4

Scenario 2 : Pune to Mumbai

Distance = 𝑑2 = 200
Speed = 𝑠2 = 100
time = 𝑡2 = 2

What’s constant here in both the scenarios ? Distance !

Case 2 - If speed is constant : ( s = constant )
=> The ratio of distances will be equal to the ratio of time taken.
=> 𝑑1: 𝑑2 = 𝑡1 : 𝑡2

Example :
Ravi starts from Delhi to Mumbai at a speed of 50 km/hr and reaches Mumbai in 20 hrs.
On his way back , due to traffic congestion , he takes a different route and reaches Delhi in 25
hours at the same initial speed.

We have two scenarios here

Scenario 1 : Delhi to Mumbai
Distance = 𝑑1 = 1000
Speed = 𝑠1 = 50
time = 𝑡1 = 20

Scenario 2 : Mumbai to Delhi

Distance = 𝑑2 = 1250
Speed = 𝑠2 = 50
time = 𝑡2 = 25

What’s constant here in both the scenarios ? Speed !

Case 3 - If time is constant : ( t = constant )
=> The ratio of distances will be equal to the ratio of speeds.
=> 𝑑1: 𝑑2 = 𝑠1 : 𝑠2

Example :
Akshay travels via Cab from Delhi to Dehradun travelling at a speed of 50 km/hr. The distance
between Delhi and Dehradun is 300 km. On his way back along the same route , Akshay
travelled via Bus thinking that he would reach Delhi in the same time as before and put an
alarm in his watch. However , when the alarm rang , he found out that the bus had crossed
Delhi and had travelled 120 km more.

What went wrong ???

He assumed that the cab and the bus were travelling at the same speeds !!!

We have two scenarios here

Scenario 1 : Delhi to Dehradun

Distance = 𝑑1 = 300
Speed = 𝑠1 = 50
time = 𝑡1 = 6

Scenario 2 : Dehradun to Delhi

Distance = 𝑑2 = 420
Speed = 𝑠2 = 70
time = 𝑡2 = 6

What’s constant here in both the scenarios ? time !

Average Speed

𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑑

𝐴𝑠 = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛

Case 1 : Average speed from A to C

𝑑1km 𝑑2km
A ---------------------- B -----------------------C
𝑡1hr 𝑡2 hr

𝑑1 + 𝑑2
𝐴𝑠 = 𝑡1 + 𝑡2

Case 2 : Average speed from A to C

𝑑1km 𝑑2 km
A ---------------------- B -----------------------C
𝑠1 km/hr 𝑠2 km/hr

𝑑1 + 𝑑2
𝐴𝑠 = 𝑑1 𝑑2
𝑠1
+ 𝑠2

Case 3 : Average speed from A to C

𝑡1 hr 𝑡2 hr
A ---------------------- B -----------------------C
𝑠1 km/hr 𝑠2 km/hr

𝑠1 𝑡1 + 𝑠2 𝑡2
𝐴𝑠 = 𝑡1 + 𝑡2

There can be other cases as well (say when the 2 distances or the 2 times or the 2 speeds are
the same ). All you have to do is to use the information properly.
Relative Speed
Case 1 :
Say A and B start the journey with speed a m/s and b m/s ( where a > b ) respectively toward
each other starting at the same time( say 8 pm ) and they meet at time 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡 at point X.

→a 𝑑𝐴 𝑑𝐵 b ←
A -----------------------------X----------------B
< - - - - - - - - - - - - d - - - - - - - - - - - ->

Time taken by A and B is the same.

𝑑𝐴 = a 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡
𝑑𝐵 = b 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡
𝑑𝐴 + 𝑑𝐵 = d
𝑑
So, 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡 = 𝑎+𝑏

Case 2 :
Say A and B start the journey with speed a m/s and b m/s (where a > b ) respectively in same
direction at the same time( say 8 pm ) and they meet at time 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡 at point X.

→a b→
A ---------------------------------B --------------------- X
<- - - - - - - - d - - - - - - - - - -> 𝑑𝐵
<----------------------------- 𝑑𝐴 ------------------------ >
Time taken by A and B is the same.
𝑑𝐴 = a 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡
𝑑𝐵 = b 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡
𝑑𝐴 - 𝑑𝐵 = d
𝑑
So, 𝑡𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡 = 𝑎−𝑏

If two objects are moving in the same direction then their relative speed will be an absolute
difference between their individual speeds and if they are moving towards each other then
their relative speed will be the summation of their individual speeds. Relative speed will be
used to calculate the time when they meet. Both the objects should start their journey AT THE
SAME TIME !!.
Upstream and Downstream

Case 1 : Let’s say you are sitting on boat which is moving with speed B m/s and the river flow
has speed R m/s and you are moving in the direction of flow then this scenario will be
downstream(we are flowing with the river) and your total Downstream speed(D) will be:

B m/s (Boat)

D = (R + B) m/s

R m/s
(River)

Case 2 : Let’s say you are sitting on boat which is moving with speed B m/s and the river flow
has speed R m/s and you are moving in opposite direction of flow , then this scenario will be
upstream(against the flow) and your total Upstream speed(U) will be:

B m/s (Boat)

U = (B - R) m/s

R m/s
(River)
Questions

1. Two trains run in opposite directions on a circular track. Train A travels at a rate of 4π miles
per hour and Train B runs at a rate of 6π miles per hour. If the track has a radius of 6 miles and
both the trains start from Point S at the same time, how long, in hours, after the trains depart
will they again meet at Point S for the first time ?

SOLUTION :

The circumference of the track is 2πr = 12π;

𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 12π
Train A will be at point S every = 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑
= 4π
= 3 hours ;

𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 12π
Train B will be at point S every = 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑
= 6π
= 2 hours ;

So, they will meet at point S for the first time in 6 hours

( the least common multiple of 2 and 3 ).

2. Danny drove his old car 100 kilometres, from his home to a friend’s place. To prevent the
engine from overheating, he stopped his car for 10 minutes every time he completed 40
kilometres of continuous driving. When the car was moving, Danny drove it at an average speed
of 60 kilometres per hour. What was Danny's average speed on that trip ?

SOLUTION :

Let's imagine the following diagram :

t1 t2 t3
HOME---------------| 10min |----------------|10 min |------------FRIEND’s
<—40 km—> <—40 km—> <-20 km->

𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒
Avg speed = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒

We know the total distance = 100.

Now to calculate total time , we need to calculate individual times of each zone and also add
the 2 x 10 min breaks he took in between.

40 2
𝑡1 = 60
= 3
hr
40 2
𝑡2 = 60
= 3
hr
20 1
𝑡3 = 60
= 3
hr

10 1
and Break times = 2 × ( 60 ) = 3
hr
t = total time = 𝑡1 + 𝑡2 + 𝑡3 + Break times = 2 hr
100
Hence, Avg speed = 2
= 50 kilometres per hour
3. At 9 am, Amy started driving from her house towards the north at a speed of 60 mph. Amy’s
brother Bernie started from the same place, in his car, at 11:30 am and drove towards the south
at a speed of 90 mph. If at a certain point of time, the distance between them is 600 miles, then
at what time was this distance measured?

SOLUTION :

Amy and Bernie started from the same place.

Amy started at 9 am, by 11:30 am, Amy would have covered (60 × 2.5)=> 150 miles.

Bernie starts at 11:30 am and moves towards the south.

After every 1 hour, the distance between them increases by 90 + 60 miles = 150 miles.

At 12:30 pm, the distance would be 300 miles.

Then for the distance between them to be 600 miles , it would take another 2 hours.

Hence at 2:30 PM, the distance between Amy and Bernie would be 600 miles.
4. A and B start from point X towards Y and C starts from point Y towards point X simultaneously
at 9 am. If the ratio of speeds of A, B and C is 5:3:4 and A meets C at 10 am , at what time will A,
B and C reach their destination?

SOLUTION :

Let the speeds of A, B and C be 5k, 3k and 4k respectively .

In 1 hour, A travels 5k and C travels 4k and since they start from opposite ends, we can say that
the distance XY is 5k + 4k = 9k.

9𝑘
Thus time taken by A to reach destination is 5𝑘
= 1.8 hours i.e. 1 hour 48 minutes.

9𝑘
Time taken by B to reach destination is 3𝑘
= 3 hours

9𝑘
And time taken by C to reach destination is 4𝑘
= 2.25 hours i.e. 2 hours 15 minutes.

A, B and C will reach their destinations at 10:48 am, 12 noon and 11:15 am respectively.
5. In a river, a motorboat and raft start their journeys in the same direction at the same time
from the same point. The motorboat travels 40/3 km downstream and then without stopping it
travels 28/3 km in the reverse direction and meets the raft. What is the speed of the river to
that of the motorboat in still water? (Assume that the raft just floats.)

SOLUTION :

Since the raft is just floating, the speed of the raft will be the same as the speed of the river.

Let M be the speed of the motor boat and R be the speed of the river.

Please note that the raft travelled ( 40/3 - 28/3 ) = 4 km. ( Think Why ??? )

Time taken by boat to travel downstream and upstream = Time taken by the raft flowing
downstream

40 28 4
3(𝑀+𝑅)
+ 3(𝑀−𝑅)
= 𝑅

You will find the calculation intensive , but it’s good for practice !!

𝑅 3
On solving , we get 𝑀
= 17
 Set Theory (2 Set, 3 Set)

Total

2 Set :
a : only A
b : only B
c : both A and B
n(none) : Neither A nor B

The region a + b + c is called (A or B) / Either A or B / A union B (A∪B) / at least 1

One way of representing (A or B) / Either A or B / A union B (A∪B) / at least 1 = a + b + c

Another way of representing (A or B) / Either A or B / A union B (A∪B) / at least 1 = A + B - (both

A and B)

Total = none + at least 1 = n + A + B - ( both A and B )

Total = n + A + B - ( both A and B )

Example : In a survey of 200 people, 80 people read Magazine M and 96 people read magazine
R. If the number of people surveyed who do not read either magazine is 3 times the number
who read both magazines, how many of the people surveyed read both the magazines?

SOLUTION :
Total = None + M + R - Both M and R
200 = 3*Both + 80 + 96 - Both
2 Both = 24
Both = 12
Matrix method (Only for 2-Set) :

We will be using this method depending on the type of information given. Some questions can
easily be solved using this method. Some questions will be solved using the 2-Set formula
provided above.

Method should be ‘Information driven’.

Representation :

Right Handed (X) Left Handed

(not X)

Men(Y) c b b+c

Women (not Y) a d a+d

c+a b+d Total = a + b + c + d

Total Number of People = a + b + c + d

Number of Right Handed People = c + a

Number of Left Handed People = b + d

Total Number of Men = b + c

Total Number of Women = a + d

Example : 50% of the apartments in a certain building have windows and hardwood floors . 25%
of the apartments without windows have hardwood floors. If 40% of the apartments do not
have hardwood floors , what percent of the apartments with windows have hardwood floors ?

SOLUTION :

window not window

hard floor 50 1 60
4
X = 10

not hard floor 40

60 X = 40 Total = 100

Let's say Total apartments are 100.

50% of the apartments in a certain building have windows and hardwood floors = 50

25% of the apartments without windows have hardwood floors.

Here the base is ‘apartments without windows’. Do we know this value ? NOO.
Say there are X ‘apartments without windows’.
So , 25% of X have hardwood floors

40% of the apartments(100) do not have hardwood floors = 40.

From the table , we know that Apartments without windows having hard floor
1
=> 4
X = 10 => X = 40

Apartments with windows = 60

Apartments with windows having hardwood floors = 50

5
Percent of the apartments with windows having hardwood floors = 6
= 83.33%
3 Sets :

Total

None = n
Only 1 / Exactly 1 = a + b + c
Exactly 2 = d + e + f
All 3 = g

Total = none + at least 1 = n + (a + b + c + d + e + f + g)

1 way of representing
At least 1 / (A or B or C) = (a + b + c + d + e + f + g)

Another way of representing

At least 1 / (A or B or C) = A + B + C - (𝐴𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐵) - (𝐵𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐶) - (𝐶𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐴) + (𝐴𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐵𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐶)

Exactly 2 = (𝐴𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐵) + (𝐵𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐶) + (𝐶𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐴) - 3(𝐴𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐵𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐶)

We can derive various results / formulae according to what’s asked in the question.
Example : Each of the 59 members in a high school class is required to sign up for a minimum of
one and a maximum of three academic clubs. The three clubs to choose from are the poetry
club, the history club, and the writing club. A total of 22 students signed up for the poetry club,
27 students for the history club, and 28 students for the writing club. If 6 students sign up for
exactly two clubs, how many students sign up for all three clubs ?

SOLUTION :

Total

Total = 59 = none + (𝑃 𝑂𝑅 𝐻 𝑂𝑅 𝑊) [ none=0 ]

59 = ( 𝑃 𝑂𝑅 𝐻 𝑂𝑅 𝑊 ) = P + H + W - {(PandH) + (HandW) + (WandP)} + (PandHandW)
59 = 22 + 27 + 28 - {d + g + g + e + f + g} + g = 77 - { d + e + f + 3g } + g - - - -(1)

If 6 students sign up for exactly two clubs :

Exactly 2 = (PandH) + (HandW) + (WandP) - 3(PandHandW) = { d + e + f + 3g } - 3g
6 = d + e + f - - - - (2)
Putting the value of d + e + f = 6 in Equation 1 , we get
59 = 77 - { 6 + 3g } + g
2g = 12
g = 6.
Questions

4 3
1. In Diana's stamp collection, 5
of the stamps are Canadian, and 7
of the Canadian stamps
were issued before 1940. If 192 stamps in Diana's collection are Canadian stamps that were
issued in 1940 or later, how many stamps in her collection are not Canadian?

SOLUTION :

Total Stamps = S
4
Canadian stamps = 5
S
1
Not Canadian stamps = 5
S
3 4 12
Canadian stamps issued before 1940 = 7
of ( 5 S) = 35
S
4 12
Canadian stamps that were issued in 1940 or later = 5 S- 35
S = 192
16
=> 35
S = 192 => S = 420

Canadian not Canadian

Before 1940 12
35
S

1940 or later 192

4 1 Total = S
5
S 5
S

1 1
Not Canadian stamps = 5
S= 5
of (420) = 84.

Alternatively , we can assume the value of S to be a multiple of 5 and 7 i.e 35 and answer the
question easily. [ Please think why are we assuming the value to be 35 !!!!! ]
2. 75% of the rooms at the Stagecoach Inn have a queen-sized bed, and the remaining rooms
have a king-sized bed. Of the non-smoking rooms, 60% have a queen-sized bed. If 10% of the
rooms at the Stagecoach Inn are non-smoking rooms with king-sized beds, what percentage of
the rooms permit smoking ?

SOLUTION :

Assume Total rooms to be 100.

From the table, we can say that 10 = 0.4x => x = 25

This means 75 rooms permit smoking.

75
So , percentage of the rooms that permit smoking = 100
= 75%
3. At a certain dealership, every car on the lot has at least one of the three modest options :
windows, brakes and radio. 40 cars have windows, 30 have brakes, and 50 have a radio. 21 cars
have brakes and radio, 13 have windows and brakes and 17 have windows and a radio. If 11 cars
have all 3 options, what is the total number of cars on the lot ?

SOLUTION :

Total = none + (at least 1)

Total = 0 + (W + R + B - ( WandR ) - ( RandB) - ( BandW ) + ( WandBandR )

Total = 40 + 50 + 30 - 17 - 21 - 13 + 11 = 80
4. In a certain group of 55 truly disturbed people, 22 people wear Crocs, 18 pull the wings off of
flies, and 32 people root for the Yankees. If each of the 55 people does at least one activity and
three people do all three, how many of them do exactly two activities?

SOLUTION :

C = 22 , W = 18 , Y = 32
Total = 55
none = 0
All = 3

Total = C + W + Y - (CandW) - (WandY) - (YandC) + (CandWandY)

55 = 22 + 18 + 32 - [(CandW) + (WandY) + (YandC)] + 3

[(CandW) + (WandY) + (YandC)] = 20

Exactly 2 = (CandW) + (WandY) + (YandC) - 3 (CandWandY) = 20 - 9 = 11.

5. Of the 100 athletes at a soccer club, 40 play defence and 70 play midfield. If at least 20 of the
athletes play neither midfield nor defence, the number of athletes that play both midfield and
defence could be any number between

A. 10 to 20
B. 10 to 40
C. 30 to 40
D. 30 to 70
E. 40 to 70

SOLUTION :

First of all notice that since only 40 athletes play defence, then the number of athletes that play
both midfield and defence cannot possibly be greater than 40. Eliminate D and E.

Total = ( at least 1 ) + ( none )

Total = (defence + midfield - both) + ( none )

100 = 40 + 70 - both + none

both = none + 10.

Since the least value of {none} is given to be 20, then the least value of {both} is 20 +10 = 30.

Eliminate A and B.

ANSWER C
Framing Equations

Let’s say you have a 2 digit number xy.

y is the unit digit and x is tens digit, then it can be written as : 10x + y
Number formed by interchanging the digits i.e yx can be written as : 10y + x

Equations from given statements :

4 subtracted from 7 times 't' gets you 32 => 7t - 4 = 32

2
3 is 7 more than two-fifth of 'y' => 3 = 7 + 5
y

The sum of numbers x and 4 is 9 => x + 4 = 9

2
The number multiplied by itself is 4 more than 21 => 𝑁 = 21 + 4

5 subtracted from 2 times a number gives us 3 => 2N - 5 = 3

Questions

1. There are a certain number of chairs and tables loaded up in the shipping container. All the
chairs have equal weight and all the tables have equal weight as well. There are 6 times as many
chairs as there are tables. The weight of each table is 9 times the weight of each chair. If the
total weight of the tables is 1,200 kilograms, then the total combined weight of the chairs and
tables is how many kilograms ?

SOLUTION :

Let the number of chairs be C & tables be T.

Weight of each Chair = 𝑊𝑐 & weight of each table = 𝑊𝑡

Given: C = 6T , 𝑊𝑡 = 9𝑊𝑐 , T × 𝑊𝑡 = 1200 kg

To find: (T × 𝑊𝑡) + (C × 𝑊𝑐) = ??

𝑊𝑡
= 1200 + 6T × 9

6
= 1200 + 9
× 1200

15
= 1200 × 9

= 2000
2. A certain psychologist charges $30 more for the first hour of therapy than for each additional
hour. If the total charge to a patient who receives 6 hours of therapy is $300, what is the total
charge to a patient who receives only 3 hours of therapy ?

SOLUTION :

If the charge for each additional hour = x

Then the charge for first hour = x + 30

Charge of 6 hours of therapy = 300

=> 1st hour + additional 5 hrs = 300
=> x + 30 + 5x = 300
=> 6x = 270
=> x = 45

Total charge for patient for 3 hours of therapy = x + 30 + 2x = 3x + 30 = $165

3. The sum of five consecutive even numbers of set A is 220. What is the sum of a different set
of five consecutive numbers whose second lowest number is 37 less than double of the lowest
number of set A ?

SOLUTION :

Let the numbers be x, x + 2, x + 4, x + 6 and x + 8

Then,
x + x + 2 + x + 4 + x + 6 + x + 8 = 220
5x + 20 = 220
5x = 200
x = 40

Set A is 40, 42, 44, 46 and 48

Double of the smallest number of Set A = 80 and 37 less than 80 = 43

So, 43 is the second lowest in the other set of consecutive numbers.

Set B = 42, 43, 44, 45 and 46

Sum = 42 + 43 + 44 + 45 + 46 = 220
4. Michael purchased a total of $1,200 worth of traveller’s checks in $10 and $50
denominations. During the trip he cashed 15 checks and then lost all of the rest. If the number
of $10 checks cashed was one more or one less than the number of $50 checks cashed, what is
the minimum possible value of the checks that were lost?

SOLUTION :

It is given that the number of $10 checks cashed was one more or one less than the number of
$50 checks cashed, so we take the number of $10 checks cashed be x.

Then as per the given condition , the number of $50 checks can either be x - 1 or x + 1.
Let us solve for both.
x + x - 1 = 15 ……….(1)
x + x + 1 = 15 ……….(2)

From ( 1 ) we get the number of $10 checks cashed as 8 and the number of $50 checks cashed
as 7. (Amount Spent = 430)

From ( 2 ) we get the number of $10 checks cashed as 7 and the number of $50 checks cashed
as 8. (Amount Spent = 470)

We need to minimise the value of the checks that were lost , so we need to maximise the
amount spent. Michael cashed 15 checks. When can this amount be maximum ?
When the number of $10 checks cashed is 7 and the number of $50 checks cashed is 8.
(Amount Spent = 470) [Case 2]

So, The minimum possible value of the checks that were lost = 1200 - 470 = $ 730.
 2
5. While collecting a fund, Jason received $200 from each of the 5
th of his classmates and
1
observed that he was able to meet 4
th of the required fund. What should be the per head
contribution from the rest of the class to meet his requirement?

SOLUTION :

Assumed Total = 5 students

So, 2 students paid 200$ each = 400$

Let the required fund be x.

1
400 = x × 4

x = 1600

Left amount = 1200$ and there are 3 students left.

1200
So per head contribution = 3
= $ 400
 Statistics Concepts

Averages (Mean)

𝑠𝑢𝑚 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑠𝑎𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑠

Avg = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑠𝑎𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑠

𝑆𝑢𝑚
A= 𝑛
→ Sum = n A ( We will be using this more often )

a. Average is dividing equally. Assume that sum is divided equally among every observation.
Example : A = Rs 10, B = Rs 20 , C = Rs 30 , D = Rs 40 , E = Rs 50

10+20+30+40+50
A= 5
= 30 Rs/person . So each gets Rs 30 (Assumption).

IMPORTANT :
Please note that the unit of Average in this example is Rs/person.
So , if the unit of Average is Rs/person , then the unit of samples is ‘persons’.
If the unit of Average is km/hour , then the unit of samples is ‘hours’.
If the unit of Average is Rs/kg , then the unit of samples is ‘kgs’.

b. If every sample is increased, decreased, multiplied or divided by constant k, the average will
also get increased, decreased, multiplied or divided by k.

Example :

samples samples + 5 samples - 5 Samples x 5 Samples / 5

10 15 5 50 2

20 25 15 100 4

30 35 25 150 6

Avg = 20 Avg = 25 Avg = 15 Avg = 100 Avg = 4

As you can see , when every sample is multiplied by 5 (Column 4 of the table) , the average also
gets multiplied by 5.
The same reasoning is valid for other cases as well.
Example : The age of father, mother and daughter in 2010 was 40,30 and 8. Find the average
age of the family after 15 years.

SOLUTION :
40 + 30 + 8
A (2010) = 3
= 26 years/person

As each sample increases by 15 , the Average age will also increase by 15 years. ( CHECK !!! )
Hence, Average age of the family after 15 years is 26 + 15 = 41 years.

c. Weighted Average :

M : Combined Mean / Weighted Average

N1 : Number of samples in group 1
N2 : Number of samples in group 2
M1 : Mean (Average) of group 1
M2 : Mean (Average) of group 2

We know Sum of all samples = total number of samples × Weighted Average (Sum = n A)
Sum of Samples of group 1 + Sum of Samples of group 2 = (𝑁1 + 𝑁2)M
=> 𝑀1 𝑁1 + 𝑀2 𝑁2 = (𝑁1 + 𝑁2)M
𝑀1 𝑁1 + 𝑀2 𝑁2
=> M = 𝑁1 + 𝑁2

d. You might have heard about the Alligation method. It’s nothing new but rearranging the
above formula to find the ratio between the samples. After rearranging , the equation looks like
this :

𝑁1 𝑀2 − 𝑀
𝑁2
= 𝑀 − 𝑀1
HOW TO REMEMBER :
N1 corresponds to the difference between the other group’s average and the weighted average.
N2 corresponds to the difference between the weighted average and the other group’s average.

Please note that we will use the Alligation method only when information about all the
averages or difference of the averages is given. Then only it is possible to find the ratio of
samples.

As long as there’s a situation wherein two groups are combined to form a resultant group and
we have group average information , we can apply alligation. So, you may find its use when
groups or classes or mixtures or solutions are combined. Just ensure that you are able to
identify the averages and the samples.
Example 1 : Section A has average weight(mean) of 50 Kg/student and consists of 30 students.
Section B has an average weight(mean) of 40 kg/student and 20 students. Find the weighted
average when both Sections sit together.

SOLUTION :

As we don’t have information about the resultant / weighted average , we should solve the
problem conventionally.

50 × 30 + 40 ×20
M = 30 + 20
= 46 kg/student
Example 2 : In a workforce, there are managers and directors (a manager can't be a director and
vice versa ). The average salary of managers is $4000 less than the total avg salary. The average
salary of directors is $10000 more than the total avg salary. What is the % of managers ?

SOLUTION :
Average info is not provided here. But we are more interested in the difference between these
averages to find the ratio of samples. Let’s use Alligation here.

M and D are the number of managers and directors.

𝐴𝑀 , 𝐴𝐷 , A are the averages.

We know from the diagram that M : D = | 𝐴𝐷 - A| : | A - 𝐴𝑀| = |10000| : |4000| = 5 : 2

𝑀 5
% of managers = 𝑀+𝐷
= 7
= 71.XX%
QUESTIONS

1. Which of the following series of numbers, if added to the set {1, 6, 11, 16, 21}, will not change
the set’s mean?

I. 1.5, 7.11 and 16.89

II. 5.36, 10.7 and 13.24
III. -21.52, 23.3, 31.22

SOLUTION :
(1+6+11+16+21)
Mean of the given set is 5
= 11.

Now, for the mean to not change, the mean of the new set we add to the old one should also be
equal to 11 (or the sum must be equal to 33. You know why !!).

Let's check:
I. 1.5, 7.11 and 16.89 --> Sum is not 33.Discard
II. 5.36, 10.7 and 13.24 --> Sum is not 33.Discard.
III. -21.52, 23.3, 31.22 --> -21.52 + 23.3 + 31.22 - - > Sum = 33 . Correct.
2. The average age of a group of people going for a picnic is 16 years. Twenty new
persons with an average age of 15 years join the group on the spot due to which their average
becomes 15.5 years. Find the number of people going for a picnic initially.

SOLUTION :

Let y be the number of people going for the picnic initially .

Method 1 : Conventional Approach
Sum of all sample = total number of samples × Weighted Average (Sum = n A)
Sum of Samples of group 1 + Sum of Samples of group 2 = (𝑁1 + 𝑁2)M
=> y×16 + 20×15 = (y + 20)×15.5
=> 0.5y = 20×0.5
=> y = 20

Method 2 : As we have the average info , we can use alligation.

y : 20 = 0.5 : 0.5
So , y = 20.
3. There are 2 bars of copper-nickel alloy. One bar has 2 parts of copper to 5 parts of nickel. The
other has 3 parts of copper to 5 parts of nickel. If both bars are melted together to get a 20 kg
bar with the final copper-to-nickel ratio of 5:11. What was the weight of the first bar?

SOLUTION :
This question can be solved through alligation.
Understand that in a way , we are combining two mixtures. As of now , Average is of the form
Copper/Nickel . We need to first convert this information to Copper/ Total. Why did we convert?
Because the total number of samples here is 20kg which is the total weight of Copper and Nickel
in the final mixture.

Bar 1 : Copper / Total = 2/7

Bar 2 : Copper / Total = 3/8
Combined : Copper / Total = 5/16

1 3
Weight of Bar 1 : Weight of Bar 2 = 16
: 112
=7:3
If the Total weight of the mixture is 10( ratio-wise ) , then the weight of the first bar is 7.
If the Total weight of the mixture is 20 , the weight of the first bar is 14.
ANSWER 14
4. There are five boxes in a box hold. The weight of the first box is 40 kg and the weight of the
second box is 50% higher than the weight of the third box, whose weight is 25% higher than the
first boxes’ weight. The fourth box at 150 kg is 50% heavier than the fifth box. Find the
difference in the average weight of the four heaviest boxes and the four lightest boxes.

SOLUTION :

Box 1 = 40

Box 3 = 125% of Box 1 = 50

Box 2 = 150% of Box 3 = 150% of 50 = 75

Box 4 = 150

Box 4 = 150% of Box 5 => 150 = 150% of Box 5 => Box 5 = 100

150 + 100 + 75 + 50
Average weight of the 4 heaviest boxes = 4

100 + 75 + 50 + 40
Average weight of the 4 lightest boxes = 4

150 + 100 + 75 + 50 100 + 75 + 50 + 40 150 − 40 110

Difference = 4
- 4
= 4
= 4
= 27.5 kg.
5. A different mixture of vinegar and oil was 30 percent vinegar. After 10 ounces of oil was
added to the mixture, the resulting new mixture was only 18 percent vinegar. How many ounces
were in the original mixture ?

SOLUTION :

This question can be solved via alligation. We alligate with respect to the % of Vinegar present in
the mixtures. (Try solving with respect to % of oil)

10 ounces of oil will contain 0% vinegar.

Weight 1 : Weight 2 = 3 : 2

We know the actual value of Weight 2 i.e 10

Using the ratio information , 2 parts of Weight 2 in the ratio corresponds to 10

So , 3 units of Weight 1 will correspond to 3×5 i.e 15.

How many ounces were in the original mixture ?

15 ounces.
 Arithmetic Progression (AP)

AP Series : Difference between consecutive terms is same

Example : 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 (diff = 2)

a. If we have even number of terms in AP series, then sum of this AP series will be,

Example : 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 ( number of terms = 6 )

Sum = number of terms x (Average of equidistant terms)

1𝑠𝑡 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 2𝑛𝑑 + 2𝑛𝑑 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 = 2
= 2
and so on.

2 + 12 4 +10
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 = 2
= 2
= 7

Sum = 6 x 7 = 42

b. If we have odd number of terms in AP series, then sum of this AP series will be,

Example : 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 ( number of terms = 5 )

Sum = number of terms x (Average of equidistance terms)

Middle term will not have any pair.

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 will also be equal to the middle term .

1𝑠𝑡 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 2𝑛𝑑 + 2𝑛𝑑 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 2
= ......... = 𝑚𝑖𝑑𝑑𝑙𝑒 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 .

2 + 10 4 +8
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 2
= ........ = 6 = 6

Sum = 5 x 6 = 30
AP : Say the first term is ‘a’ and there’s an increase of ‘d’ (d can be positive or negative)

a , a + d, a + 2d, ……………… , a + (n -1)d

Difference between consecutive terms is the same i.e d. This ‘d’ is also known as the common
difference. There are a total of n terms here and the difference between consecutive terms is d.

Sum = n x (Average of equidistance terms)

1𝑠𝑡 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑎 + 𝑎 + (𝑛−1)𝑑

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 2

𝑛
Sum = 2
(2𝑎 + (𝑛 − 1)𝑑)

NOTE :
𝑎+𝑐
If a,b,c are in AP , then b-a = c-b => 2b = a + c => b = 2

Example 1 : Find the sum of 1 + 2 + 3 + …………………… + n.

SOLUTION :

The given series is in AP with n terms and the first term is 1.

1+𝑛
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2

Sum = n x (Average of equidistance terms)

𝑛 (𝑛 + 1)
Sum = 2
Example 2 : Find the sum of 1 + 2 + 3 + ………….. + 8.

SOLUTION :

The given series is in AP with 8 terms and the first term is 1.

1+8
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 4. 5

Sum = n x (Average of equidistance terms)

Sum = 8 x 4.5 = 36

Example 3 : Find the sum of 3 + 4 + 5 + ………. + 15

SOLUTION :
The given series is in AP with the first term as 3.
To find the number of terms :
From the first term to the last term , there’s a difference or a gap of 12. (15 -3)
Between every consecutive term, there’s a difference or a gap of 1.
So, 1 gap = 1 , So a difference or a gap of 12 will correspond to 12 gaps.

If there’s 1 gap , there are 2 terms . (3,4)

If there are 2 gaps ,there are 3 terms. (3,4,5)
If there are 9 gaps , there are 10 terms.
Hope you understand where we are going !!
So , if there are 12 gaps , there will be 12 + 1 = 13 terms

3 + 15
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 9

Sum = n x (Average of equidistance terms)

Sum = 13 x 9 = 117
REMEMBER !!!
In an AP ,
Number of terms = number of gaps + 1
𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 − 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚
Number of gaps = 𝑉𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝑜𝑓 1 𝐺𝑎𝑝

**Average of odd number of consecutive terms will always be an integer and the average of
even number of consecutive terms will always be a non-integer.

(No need to remember the above statement ; remember the examples)

Example 1 : 1,2,3,4,5 (Odd number of consecutive terms)

1+5 2+4
Avg of terms that are in AP is equal to the Average of equidistant terms = 2
OR 2
OR 3
𝑆𝑢𝑚 15
Conventionally , Avg = 𝑛
= 5
=3
Average of odd number of consecutive terms will always be integer

Example 2 : 1,2,3,4,5,6 (Even number of consecutive terms)

1+6 2+5
Avg of terms that are in AP is equal to the Average of equidistant terms = 2
OR 2
OR so on.
𝑆𝑢𝑚 21
Conventionally , Avg = 𝑛
= 6
= 3.5
Average of even number of consecutive terms will always be non-integer.

Find the number of terms in the following series :

Example 1 : 1, 3, 5, 7, ……………………. , 31

SOLUTION :
31 − 1
Number of gaps = 2
= 15
Number of terms = 15 + 1 = 16
Example 2 : 3, 7, 11, 15, ……………………. , 99

SOLUTION :
99 −3
Number of gaps = 4
= 24
Number of terms = 24 + 1 = 25.

Example 3 : Find the 100th term of the series : 1, 8, 15, ………. . .

SOLUTION :
If we were to go to the 100th term from the first term , we would encounter 99 gaps.
1 Gap = +7 , So 99 Gaps will be equal to 99× 7 i.e 693
So , we need to add 693 to the first term in order to reach the 100th term.
100th term = 1 + 693 = 694

CONVENTIONALLY :
To find the nth term , we have
nth term = first term + (n - 1)× (difference between consecutive terms)
100th term = 1 + (99)× 7 = 694

Example 4 : Find the 1st term of an AP if the 15th term is 100 and the difference is -4.

SOLUTION :
Between the 1st and the 15th term , there will be 14 gaps. 1 Gap is -4 , So 14 Gaps will be -56.
If we were to go from 15th term back to 1st term , we need to add 56 to the 15th term.
Why ?
As we are moving from 1st term to 15th term , we are subtracting 56 from the first term. This is
a decreasing sequence. So , as we move from the 15th term to the 1st term , we need to add
56.

ANSWER : 156

CONVENTIONALLY :
nth term = first term + (n - 1)× (difference between consecutive terms)
100 = first term + 14× (-4)
first term = 156
Example 5 : Find 4 consecutive integers whose average is = 0.

SOLUTION :
x, x+1, x+2, x+3

4𝑥 + 6
A= 4
=0
−3
x= 2
not an integer.
So there will NEVER be any 4 consecutive integers whose average is = 0.

Example 6 : Find 6 consecutive integers whose average is = 0.

SOLUTION :
x, x+1, x+2, x+3, x+4, x+5
6𝑥 +15
A= 6
=0
−5
x= 2
not an integer.
So there will NEVER be any 6 consecutive integers whose average is = 0.

Example 7 : Find 5 consecutive integers whose average is = 0.

SOLUTION :
x, x+1, x+2, x+3, x+4

5𝑥 +10
A= 5
=0
x = -2 an integer.
So -2, -1, 0 ,1, 2 have average 0.
Example 8 : Find 3 consecutive integers whose average is = 0.

SOLUTION :

x, x+1, x+2
3𝑥 +3
A= 3
=0
x = -1 an integer.
So -1 , 0 , 1 have average 0.

If there are an odd number of consecutive integers then their average may be zero and in that
case the middle term and sum will be zero. But,if there are even number of consecutive integers
, then the average CAN NOT be zero.

Example 9 : In a set of 3 numbers, the highest number is 10 and the average is also 10 . Then
what can we predict ?

SOLUTION :
Sum = 10 x 3 = 30
Series = 10, 10, 10 (prediction) only possible series.
Numbers have to be the same.

Example 10 : In a set of 4 numbers, the smallest number is 4 and the average is also 4 then what
can we predict ?

SOLUTION :
Sum = 4 x 4 = 16
Series = 4, 4, 4, 4 (prediction) only possible series.
Numbers have to be the same.
 Median

Median is the middle value. To find the median of given samples, first sort the samples in
ascending order and then pick the middle value of sorted data, which will be our median.

Let’s say you have n number of samples (sorted)

(If n is odd) , we will have exactly 1 middle term.
Example : If n = 5 , Median will be the 3rd term

(If n is even) , we will have 2 middle terms. Median will be the average of the 2 middle terms.
Example : If n = 6 , Median will be the average of the 3rd term and the 4th term.

In an AP , Mean is equal to the Median. However , the converse may not be true.

Example : If Mean = Median = 6 and number of terms = 5 , Are the terms in AP ?

SOLUTION :
Sum of the terms = n×A = 5×6 = 30

CASE 1 : Say the terms are in AP : 4,5,6,7,8

CASE 2 : The terms are not in AP: 3,6,6,7,8

Are the terms in AP ? => MAY OR MAY NOT BE TRUE.

QUESTIONS

1. Given the ascending set {x, x, y, y, y, y}. Which is greater, the median or the mean ?

SOLUTION :
𝑆𝑢𝑚 2𝑥+4𝑦 𝑥 2𝑦
Mean = 𝑛
= 6
= 3
+ 3

Median : As there are 6 terms , the median will be the average of the 3rd and 4th term.

3𝑟𝑑 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 + 4𝑡ℎ 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 𝑦+𝑦 𝑦 2𝑦

Median = 2
= 2
= y => 3
+ 3

𝑥
As the only difference between the Mean and the Median is because of the terms 3
(in the
𝑦 𝑦 𝑥
Mean) and 3
(in the Median) , we can say that 3
> 3
. Why ? We know that y > x.

So , the median is greater than the mean.

2. There is a set of numbers in ascending order : {y - x , y , y , y , y , x , x , x , x + y }. If the

mean is 9, and the median is 7, what is x ?

SOLUTION :

As there are 9 terms , Median will be the value of 5th term = y = 7

𝑆𝑢𝑚 6𝑦 + 3𝑥
Mean = 𝑛
= 9
=9

=> 6×7 + 3x = 81
=> 3x = 39
=> x = 13
3. What is the median of a set of consecutive integers if the sum of the nth number from the
beginning and the nth number from the end is 100?

SOLUTION :
If the numbers are consecutive , we know that this is an AP Series.
In an AP , Mean = Median.
We know that Sum of 1st and Last term = Sum of 2nd and Second Last term = so on in an AP.
(Equidistant term concept)
Example : 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
1 + 7 = 2 + 6 = 3 + 5 = …..
Sum of Equidistant terms will be the same.
Average of Equidistant terms will also be the same and it will be equal to the Average of the
series.

If the sum of nth number from the beginning and nth number from the end is 100 ,
100
then we know the Average of Equidistant terms i.e 2
= 50.

Hence, Average or Mean of the Series = Average of Equidistant terms = 50.

As we know that in an AP , Mean = Median , so Median = 50.
4.

The table shows the results of a poll which asked drivers how many accidents they had had over
the previous 5 years. What is the median number of accidents per driver ?

SOLUTION :

If a set has odd number of terms the median of a set is the middle number when arranged in
ascending or descending order;
If a set has an even number of terms the median of a set is the average of the two middle terms
when arranged in ascending or descending order.

There are a total of 17+13+21+4+2+2+1=60 drivers (60 terms) so the median number of
accidents per driver would be the average of accidents of 30th and 31st drivers (as we have an
even number of terms).

30th term equals to 1 and 31st term equals to 2 so

1+2
median = 2
= 1.5

To elaborate more, you can imagine these data points as:

0, ..., 0, 1, ..., 1, 2, ..., 2, 3, ..., 3, 4, ..., 4, 5, ..., 5, 6, ..., 6 --> 17 zeros, 13 ones, 21 twos and so on,
total of 60 data points. Median would be the average of 30th and 31st terms.
5.
Player Points

Jake 51

Keri 63

Luke 15

Mia 38

Nora 22

The table above shows the number of points held by 5 players of a certain game. If an integer
number of Keri's points were taken from her and given to Luke, and the median score of the 5
players increased, how many points were transferred from Keri to Luke?

A. 23
B. 24
C. 25
D. 26
E. 27
SOLUTION :

The key to this problem is that by taking enough points from Keri and giving them to Luke, the
median of the set can change.

We can understand this best by thinking about it visually. Order the scores from low to high on a
number line, and represent the change in Luke's score with x:

The current median is Mia's 38, circled in the diagram. In order for the median to change, Luke's
score must leap-frog those of Nora and Mia, pushing Mia into the bottom two scores and
making Luke's score the median. But be careful! We don't want to decrease Keri's score so much
that Luke and Mia surpass her, leaving Mia once again in the median score position.

If 15 + x = 38, Luke would match the current median score. That is x = 23, and Keri's new score
would be 63 – 23 = 40. However, the median score would remain 38, with both Luke and Mia
having that score. Therefore, x must be greater than 23.

If 63 – x = 38, Keri would match the current median score. That is x = 25, and Luke's new score
would be 15 + 25 = 40. The median score would again remain 38, because Keri (and Mia) would
now represent the median. Therefore, x must be less than 25. Because x must be an integer, x =
24. The scores after the point transfer will be:

Keri and Luke would now both have the median score of 39.
An alternate way would be to use option choices here. It will give you the answer sooner!!
ANSWER B.
 Range

Range (R) = (max. Value in the list) - (min. Value in the list)

Find the range of the following lists:

Example 1 : 17, 22, 20 , 14, 14, 9, 10

SOLUTION :
R = 22 - 9 = 13

Example 2 : -10, -10, -30, -50

SOLUTION :
R = (-10) - (-50) = 40

Example 3 : -4, -4, -4, -4

SOLUTION :
R = (-4) - (-4) = 0

All these examples imply that Range has to be ≥ 0.

If the Range is 0 , then all the numbers in the set will be equal and vice-versa.
QUESTIONS

1. What is the range of the dataset of numbers composed entirely of {1, 6, x, 17, 20, y} if all
terms in the dataset are positive integers and xy = 18 ?

SOLUTION :
xy = 18
x and y can take the following values (1,18) (2,9) (3,6).
Since we do not have any value > 20 or a value < 1
the range will always be the same 20-1 = 19

2. A set of 51 different integers has a median of 30 and a range of 60. What is the value of the
least possible integer in this set ?

SOLUTION :
The median of the set is 30
=> If the numbers are arranged in ascending order, the 26th integer is 30

We know that all the integers to the right of the median are ≥ median.

Since the set consists of all different integers, the integers to the right of the median should be
greater than the median.

Let's make the integers to the right of the median greater than median by least possible value
i.e 1 as we want the least possible integer in the set.
=> value at 27th place will be 31
=> value at 28th place will be 32
=> value at 51st place will be 55

Given range = 60
=> max - min = 60
=> 55 - min = 60
=> min = 55 - 60 = -5
3. If a randomly selected non-negative single digit integer is added to set X {2, 3, 7, 8} , what is
the probability that the median of the set will increase while its range will remain the same ?

SOLUTION :

"A randomly selected non-negative single digit integer is added to {2, 3, 7, 8}":

We are selecting from non-negative single digit integers, so from {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9}.
These 10 digits represent the total number of outcomes. Hence, the total number of outcomes
is 10.

The median of {2, 3, 7, 8} is (3 + 7)/2 = 5 --> the number selected must be greater than 5
The range of {2, 3, 7, 8} is 8 - 2 = 6 --> the number selected must be from 2 to 8, inclusive.

To satisfy both conditions the number selected must be 6, 7, or 8.

Hence, the number of favourable outcomes is 3.

𝑓𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 3
Probability = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙
= 10
= 0.3

4. Set S contains 100 consecutive integers. If the range of the negative elements of Set S equals
80, what is the average (arithmetic mean) of the positive numbers in the set ?

SOLUTION :
So, we have a set of 100 consecutive integers. Some of them must be negative and some not (if
all of them were negative then the range of 100 consecutive negative integers would be 99, not
80). This implies that the greatest negative integer must be -1.

Now, we are told that the range of the negative elements of Set S equals 80:
{range} = {largest} - {smallest} => 80 = -1 - {smallest} => {smallest} = -81.

So, the set consists of 81 negative elements (from -81 to -1), 0 and 18 positive integers (from 1
to 18), the total of 81 + 1 + 18 = 100 consecutive integers.

𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 1 + 18
The average of integers from 1 to 18 => 2
= 2
= 9.5.
5. If the average of 5 positive integers is 40 and the difference between the largest and the
smallest of these 5 numbers is 10, what is the maximum value possible for the largest of these 5
integers?

SOLUTION :

The average of 5 positive integers is 40 --> the sum of these 5 integers is 5×40=200
let the smallest integer be x and the largest x+10

Now, we want to maximize x+10.

General rule for such kind of problems:

to maximize one quantity, minimize the others;
to minimize one quantity, maximize the others.

Hence, in order to maximize x+10 we should minimize all other terms, thus making them equal
to the smallest integer x.
We would have: x + x + x + x + ( x + 10 ) = 200 => x = 38
maximum value possible for the largest of these 5 integers => x + 10 = 48.
 Standard Deviation (SD) :

SD tells us how far the data points are with respect to the mean.

How to calculate SD ?

Example : 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 (Dataset)

Step1 : Calculate the mean ; Mean = 3

Step2 : Calculate the deviation of each data points from the mean :
(1-3) , (2-3) , (3-3) , (4-3) , (5-3) => -2 , -1 , 0 , 1 , 2

Step3 : Find the sum of squares of all the deviations :

2 2 2 2 2
Sum = (− 2) + (− 1) + (0) + (1) + (2) = 10

𝑆𝑢𝑚 𝑜𝑓 𝑠𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑑𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠 10

Step4 : SD = σ = 𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑆𝑎𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑠
= 5
= 1.41

You don’t have to use the formula to solve questions. Questions on this topic will be based on
logic.

Let’s say there are two sets and their SDs are σ1 = 1 and σ2 = 1.5 then what this means is :
Set 1 has less deviation in data points than Set 2. Set 2 has more scattered values than Set 1. Set
1 has values much closer to the mean than Set 2.

The more the SD , the more scattered values from mean and vice-versa.

Conclusions :
a. 𝑆𝐷 ≥ 0
b. If 𝑆𝐷 = 0 , then we can predict that all the values in the set are the same and vice-versa.
(as the Sum of the deviations will be 0)
(𝑅𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒)
c. 𝑆𝐷 ≤ 2
( JUST REMEMBER ! No need to go into details )
d. More spread means more SD and Less spread means lesser SD.
e. If R(range) = SD = 0, then all the numbers are equal in set and vice-versa.
Change in Statistical Parameters when every sample values are changed :

Addition Subtraction Sign Change Multiplication Division

Mean Changes Changes Changes Changes Changes

Median Changes Changes Changes Changes Changes

Range No change No change No Change Changes Changes

SD No change No change No change Changes Changes

In order to check , whether Mean/Median/Range/SD is changing or not , take the data set
1,2,3,4,5 and check what happens when 2 is added/subtracted/multiplied/divided to every
sample.
QUESTIONS:

1. Set A consists of all even integers between 2 and 100, inclusive. Set X is derived by reducing
each term in set A by 50, set Y is derived by multiplying each term in set A by 1.5, and set Z is
derived by dividing each term in set A by -4. Arrange the sets in descending order of standard
deviation ?

SOLUTION :

Set A = {2, 4, ..., 100}

Set X = {-48, -46, ..., 50}
Set Y = {3, 6, ..., 150}
Set Z = {-2/4, -4/4, ..., -100/4} = {-1/2, -1, -3/2, ..., -25}.

If we add or subtract a constant to each term in a set the SD will not change, so sets A and X will
have the same SD.

If we multiply each term by a constant, the SD will also be multiplied by the same constant, so
1
set Y will have 1.5 times the SD of set A and set Z will have 4
times the SD of set A (note SD can
not be negative so SD of Z will be SD of A divided by 4 and not by -4).

So, the ranking of SD's in descending order is : Y > A=X > Z

The standard deviation of a set shows how much variation there is from the mean, how
widespread a given set is. So, a low standard deviation indicates that the data points tend to be
very close to the mean, whereas high standard deviation indicates that the data are spread out
over a large range of values.

You can see that set Y is most widespread and set Z is least widespread, so the correct answer
is: Y , A=X , Z .
2. Sets A, B and C are shown below. If number 100 is included in each of these sets, which of the
following represents the correct ordering of the sets in terms of the absolute increase in their
standard deviation, from largest to smallest ?

A = {30, 50, 70, 90, 110}

B = {-20, -10, 0, 10, 20}
C = {30, 35, 40, 45, 50}

SOLUTION :

We don't have to calculate anything. SD measures the distance between each element and
mean. If a new element is added which is far away from the mean, it will distort the mean more
than if the new element were added close to the mean.

The means of the 3 sets are 70, 0 and 40.

100 is farthest from 0 so it will change the SD of set B the most (in terms of absolute increase).
It is closest to 70 so it will change the SD of set A the least.
Hence the answer is B > C > A.
3. Which of the following distribution of numbers has the greatest standard deviation?

A. {-3, 1, 2}
B. {-2, -1, 1, 2}
C. {3, 5, 7}
D. {-1, 2, 3, 4}
E. {0, 2, 4}

SOLUTION :

For answer choice A, the mean = 0 and the deviations are 3, 1, 2

For answer choice B, the mean = 0 and the deviations are 2, 1, 1, 2
For answer choice C, the mean = 5 and the deviations are 2, 0, 2
For answer choice D, the mean = 2 and the deviations are 3, 0, 1, 2
For answer choice E, the mean = 2 and the deviations are 2, 0, 2

We don’t need to worry about the arithmetic means (they just help us calculate the deviation of
each element from the mean); our focus should be on the deviations. The SD formula squares
the individual deviations and then adds them, then the sum is divided by the number of
elements and finally, we find the square root of the whole term. So if a deviation is greater, its
square will be even greater and that will increase the SD.

If the deviation increases and the number of elements increases, too, then we cannot be sure
what the final effect will be – an increased deviation increases the SD but an increase in the
number of elements increases the denominator and hence, actually decreases the SD. The
overall effect as to whether the SD increases or decreases will vary from case to case.

First, we should note that answers C and E have identical deviations and numbers of elements,
hence, their SDs will be identical. This means the answer is certainly not C or E, since Problem
Solving questions have a single correct answer.

Let’s move on to the other three options:

For answer choice A, the mean = 0 and the deviations are 3, 1, 2

For answer choice B, the mean = 0 and the deviations are 2, 1, 1, 2
For answer choice D, the mean = 2 and the deviations are 3, 0, 1, 2
Comparing answer choices A and D, we see that they both have the same deviations, but D has
more elements. This means its denominator will be greater, and therefore, the SD of answer D is
smaller than the SD of answer A. This leaves us with options A and B:

For answer choice A, the mean = 0 and the deviations are 3, 1, 2

For answer choice B, the mean = 0 and the deviations are 2, 1, 1, 2

Now notice that although two deviations of answers A and B are the same, answer choice A has
a higher deviation of 3 but fewer elements than answer choice B. This means the SD of A will be
higher than the SD of B, so the SD of A will be the highest. Hence, our answer must be A.

ANSWER A
4. Which of the following has the same standard deviation as {s, r, t}?

I. {r - 2, s - 2, t - 2}
II. {0, s - t, s - r}
III. {|r|, |s|, |t|}

A. I only
B. II only
C. III only
D. I and II only
E. I , II and III

SOLUTION :

If you add/subtract the same number from each element of a set, the SD does not change.

I. {r - 2, s - 2, t - 2}
Subtracting 2 from each element will not change the SD.
Same SD as that of {s, r, t}

II. {0, s - t, s - r}
Subtract -s from each element will not change the SD
{-s , -t , -r} This set will have the same SD as that of {s, r, t}.

Note that whatever the SD of {s, r, t}, the same will be the SD of {-s, -r, -t} because relative
distance between them on the number line does not change (all the numbers are just flipped
across : positive becomes negative, negative becomes positive).

III. {|r|, |s|, |t|}

This could change the relative distance between them on the number line if r, s and t all do not
have the same sign.
e.g.
______________ (-5)_______________________0______________(3)____(4)
becomes
_________________________________________0______________(3)____(4)____ (5)
Much smaller SD now as the mean will change.
ANSWER D
5. Which of the following data sets has the third largest standard deviation?

A. {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}
B. {2, 3, 3, 3, 4}
C. {2, 2, 2, 4, 5}
D. {0, 2, 3, 4, 6}
E. {-1, 1, 3, 5, 7}

SOLUTION :
In simple terms, standard deviation is the measure of the spread of the numbers around the
mean. More the spread, higher the SD.Just imagine how the numbers will be spread around the
mean on the number line.

A. {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

Mean is 3.

____1__2__3__4__5_____

B. {2, 3, 3, 3, 4}

Mean is 3.

______2__333__4_______

Tighter packed than A

SD : B < A

C. {2, 2, 2, 4, 5}

Mean is 3.

______222__3__4__5_____

Not as tight as B but tighter than A

SD : B < C < A

D. {0, 2, 3, 4, 6}

Mean is 3.

____0____2__3__4____6_____

More distant than A

SD : B < C < A < D

E. {-1, 1, 3, 5, 7}

Mean is 3.

____-1____1____3____5____7_____

More distant than D

SD : B < C < A < D < E

So A has the third largest SD.

 Number Concepts

Numbers

All numbers used in the questions are Real Numbers.

Real Numbers : (Those that can be put on the number line)

Irrational Numbers: They have Non-terminating Non-recurring decimals.

Example : √2 = 1.414…., √3 = 1.732…..

𝑝
Rational Numbers: Numbers of the form 𝑞
, where p, q are integers and q not equal to 0.
1 4
Example : 2
, 3 , -2 , 3

Decimal : 1.5 , 1.33 . . . . .

Terminating Decimal : 1.5 , 2.4 . . . . . .

4 2 6
Non - Terminating recurring Decimal : 1.3333 ( 3 ).. , 0.6666( 3 ).. , 0.5454 ( 11 )….

HOW TO CONVERT A Non - Terminating recurring Decimal into FRACTION :

X = 0.545454…….(1)
100X = 54.5454…..(2)

Equation (2) - (1)

99X = 54
6
=> X = 11

Try doing the same for 0.166666…. , 0.55555555.

Integers : {......,-2,-1, 0,1,2,..... }

Non - Positive Integers : {......,-2,-1, 0 }

Non - Negative Integers : { 0,1,2,..... }

1 4 1
Fractions : { 2
, 3
,13 }
𝑝 𝑝
Way of writing a fraction => a 𝑞 = a + 𝑞

Even Numbers : (Numbers of the form 2n)

Example : -4 , -2 , 0 , 2 , 4 , . . . . . .

Odd Numbers : (Numbers of the form 2n+1 or 2n-1)

Example : -3 , -1 , 1 , 3 , . . . . . .

Odd-Even Property ( O : Odd Number and E : Even Number ) :

O+O=E

O+E=O

E×E=E

O×O=O

O×E=E

O+O+O=O
(Sum of Odd number of Odd numbers will always be Odd)

E+E+E=E

O+O+O+E=O

𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔
𝑂 = O ; where something is a positive integer.

𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔
𝐸 = E ; where something is a positive integer.
Factors : Something that divides the given number.
Example : What are the positive factors of 10 ?
=> 1 , 2 , 5 , 10

Multiples : Something that comes in the table of the given number.

Example : What are the positive multiples of 10 ?
=> 10 , 20 , 30 . . . . .

Prime Numbers : Numbers having exactly 2 factors ( 1 and the number itself )
Example : 2,3,5,7,11,13,17,19. . . . . .

How to find whether a number is prime or not ?

Example : Is 331 prime ?
Step 1 : Take the square root of 331 i.e 18.XXX
Step 2 : Find all the prime numbers less than 18.XXX i.e 17,13,11,7,5,3,2
Step 3 : Try dividing the number 331 by these prime numbers.
If you are able to divide , it will mean that 331 has other factors apart from 1 and 331. So , it will
not be prime.
If you are not able to divide , it will mean that 331 has no other factors apart from 1 and 331. So
, it will be prime.
Once you check , you will find that 331 is PRIME !!!

Composite Numbers : More than 2 factors

Example : 4,6,8,9,10

Co-prime Numbers: Numbers having nothing in common other than 1 (Their HCF = 1)
Example : (3,5), (2,5), (2,5,7) , (2,4,5)
 𝑛
Example 1 : If n is a positive integer and k + 2 = 3 , which of the following could NOT be a value
of k ?

A. 1
B. 4
C. 7
D. 25
E. 79

SOLUTION :
𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑛
We know that 𝑂 = O . So , 3 = Odd.
𝑛
k + 2 = 3 = Odd
k + 2 = Odd
k = Odd - Even
k = Odd
4 is an even number in the option choices.

ANSWER B
Example 2 : Which of the following statements are true given the condition that x, y and z are
all odd ?
2 2 2
I. (𝑥 𝑦 + 𝑦 𝑧 + 𝑧 𝑥)( x y z ) is odd
II. (2x + 3y + 4z)(xyz + 6) is even
III. (x + y) (y + z)(z + x) is even

A. I only
B. II only
C. III only
D. I and III only
E. I and II only

SOLUTION :
x, y, z = Odd

2 2 2
I. (𝑥 𝑦 + 𝑦 𝑧 + 𝑧 𝑥)( x y z ) is odd
2 2 2
𝑥 , 𝑦 ,𝑧 = Odd
2 2 2
(𝑥 𝑦 + 𝑦 𝑧 + 𝑧 𝑥) : O + O + O = Odd
x y z : O × O × O = Odd
2 2 2
So, (𝑥 𝑦 + 𝑦 𝑧 + 𝑧 𝑥)( x y z ) : O × O = Odd
Statement I is true.

II. (2x + 3y + 4z)(xyz + 6) is even

2x, 4z = Even, 3y = Odd
(2x + 3y + 4z) : E + O + E = Odd
xyz : O × O × O = Odd
xyz + 6 : O + E = Odd
So, (2x + 3y + 4z)(xyz + 6) : O × O = Odd
Statement II is not true.

III. (x + y) (y + z)(z + x) is even

x + y , y + z, z + x : O + O = Even
So all of x + y , y + z, z + x will be Even.
So, (x + y)(y + z)(z + x) : E × E ×E = Even
Statement III is true.

ANSWER D
QUESTIONS
1. If x, y, and z are positive integers, y + z = 13, and xz = 9, which of the following must be true?

A. x is even
B. x = 3
C. y is odd
D. y > 3
E. z < x

SOLUTION :
Given xz=9
Odd × Odd = Odd
x and z must be odd
Possible values of x and z are (1,9) , (3,3) and (9,1)
Now , y + z = 13
Even + Odd = Odd
y must be even
Assuming the minimum value and maximum value of z i.e., 1 and 9 respectively
For z = 1, y = 12
For z = 9, y = 4
We get y must be Even and greater than 3.

ANSWER D
2. If, for all positive integer values of n, P(n) is defined as the sum of the smallest n prime
numbers, then which of the following quantities are odd integers?

I. P(10)
II. P(P(10))
III. P(P(P(10)))

A. I only
B. I and II only
C. I and III only
D. II and III only
E. I, II, and III

SOLUTION :

I. P(10) = Sum of smallest 10 prime numbers

P(10) = 2+ ( Sum of 9 Odd Numbers) = EVEN + ODD = ODD
II. P(P(10)) = P(ODD)
Example: P(3) = 2+3+5 = EVEN
So , P(P(10)) = EVEN

III. P(P(P(10))) = P(P(ODD)) = P(EVEN)

Example: P(2) = 2+3 = 5 = ODD

Quantity I and III are ODD integers.

ANSWER C
3. If p and q are consecutive even integers and p < q, which of the following must be divisible by
3?

2
A. 𝑝 + pq
2
B. p𝑞 + pq
2
C. 𝑝 q - pq
2 2
D. 𝑝 𝑞
2
E. p𝑞 - pq

SOLUTION :
Given p < q
Putting p = 2 and q = 4
We see that only (A) and (E) satisfies
Now , putting p = 4 and q = 6
2
Only (E) satisfies : p𝑞 - pq => 4×62- 4×6 = 120
It is divisible by 3.

ANSWER E

𝑛 𝑛+1 𝑛+2
4. If x = -1 and if n is the sum of the first 404 prime numbers, then x + 𝑥 + 𝑥 +𝑥 is
A. -4
B. -2
C. 0
D. 1
E. 4­

SOLUTION :
‘n’ is the sum of first 404 prime numbers
n = 2 + 3 + 5 +....
n = Even+ ”sum of 403 odd numbers”
n = Even + Odd = Odd
Now, Let us find the value of x + xn + xn+1 + xn+2
= (-1) + (-1)odd + (-1)Even + (-1)odd
= -1-1+1-1 = -2

ANSWER B
Prime Factorisation :
Express the number as product of prime factors:
Any Number ‘N’ can be expressed in terms of power of primes
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑑 𝑒 𝑓
N = 2 × 3 × 5 × 7 × 11 × 13 ......................

Example :
3 1 0 0 0 0 3 1
24 = 2 × 3 × 5 × 7 × 11 × 13 ...................... = 2 × 3
2 2
36 = 2 × 3

Number of factors :
Just add one in each power of prime factors and multiply all the powers.

Example :
3 1
24 = 2 × 3 = (3+1)×(1+1) = 8 (1,2,3,4,6,8,12,24) (Even number of factors)
2 2
36 = 2 × 3 = (2+1)×(2+1) = 9 (1,2,3,4,6,9,12,18,36) (Odd number of factors)

**Any perfect square always has an odd number of factors.

Example : 36 , 49 , 64 . . . . .

Highest Common Factor : Take the lowest power of each common prime factors

Example :
3 1
24 = 2 × 3
2 2
36 = 2 × 3
Common prime factors : 2 (lowest power : 2) and 3 (lowest power : 1)
2 1
HCF (24, 36) = 2 × 3 = 12
Least Common Multiple : Use highest power of each prime factors

Example :
3 1
24 = 2 × 3
2 2
36 = 2 × 3

Common prime factors : 2 (highest power : 3) and 3 (highest power : 2)

3 2
LCM (24, 36) = 2 × 3 = 72

Factors Multiple
(Which divides given number) (Which is divided by given number)

24 = 1,2,3,4,6,8,12,24 24 = 24, 48, 72, 120, 144, 168, 192, 216, ...

36 = 1,2,3,4,6,9,12,18,36 36 = 36, 72, 108, 144, 180,216, …….

Common Factors Common Multiples

1,2,3,4,6,12 72, 144, 216, …..

Highest Common Factor (HCF) : 12 Lowest Common Multiple (LCM) : 72

Product of LCM and HCF of 2 numbers is equal to the product of 2 numbers.

LCM × HCF = N1 × N2 ( valid only for 2 numbers )
Example : If the LCM of two numbers a and b is 1104 and their HCF is 4, which of the following
MUST be true?

I. a × b = 4416
II. a and b are both divisible by 8
III. a : b = 48: 23

A. I only
B. II only
C. I and III only
D. II and III only
E. I, II, and III

SOLUTION :
a×b = LCM × HCF = 1104 × 4 = 4416 (Statement I is true)

{For future reference : If HCF of a and b is 4 , a will be some multiple of 4 and b will also be
some multiple of 4. So, a = 4k1 , b = 4k2 , where k1 and k2 are co-prime (We can assume in this
way)}

As a and b have the HCF as 4 , we are sure that both of them are divisible by 4.But, they won’t
be divisible by 8. If they were , then HCF would have been 8 !!!!
(Statement II is not true)

4 1 1
LCM = 1104 = Factorize = 2 × 3 × 23
We know that both a and b will have a 4.
2 2
So, a = 2 × 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 and b = 2 × 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑒𝑙𝑠𝑒

Try contradicting what’s given in Statement III

2 0 1 4 1 0
Say a = 2 × 3 × 23 and b = 2 × 3 × 23
a : b = 23 : 12

(Statement III is not true)

ANSWER A
QUESTIONS
1. If the least common multiple of positive integers m and n is 120, and m : n = 3 : 4, what is the
greatest common factor of m and n ?

A. 3
B. 5
C. 6
D. 10
E. 12

SOLUTION :
Given LCM(m,n) = 120
m:n=3:4
We can represent m and n as 3k and 4k respectively, where k is the HCF
We know that the product of two numbers = LCM × HCF
So, 3k × 4k = 120k
12 k2 = 120k
k = 10

ANSWER D

2. How many factors greater than 1 do 120, 210, and 270 have in common ?
A. One
B. Three
C. Six
D. Seven
E. Thirty
SOLUTION:
Representing the numbers as product of primes
120 = 23 × 31 × 51
210 = 21 × 31 × 51 × 71
270 = 21 × 33 × 51
HCF = 21 × 31 × 51

Total number of factors in common = (1+1)(1+1)(1+1)= 2 × 2 × 2 = 8

We have 8-1 = 7 factors greater than 1.

ANSWER D
3. The number of students who attend a school could be divided among 10, 12, or 16 buses,
such that each bus transports an equal number of students. What is the minimum number of
students that could attend the school ?

A. 120
B. 160
C. 240
D. 320
E. 480

SOLUTION :

Total number of students= 10a = 12b = 16c

We need a multiple of 10,12 and 16, which is minimum
LCM(10,12,16)=24 × 31 × 51 = 240
ANSWER C

4. The LCM and HCF of two numbers are 2376 and 22 respectively. Find the larger of the two
numbers if their sum is 682.

A. 484
B. 562
C. 352
D. 576
E. 594

SOLUTION:
Let the two numbers be 22a and 22b , where a and b are co-prime.
LCM×HCF= 22a × 22b
2376×22=22a×22b
a×b=108…..(i)
Also, 22a+22b = 682 (GIVEN)
a+b = 31……..(ii)
Solving (i) and (ii) we get
a = 27 and b=4
So, Largest of the two numbers is 22×27 = 594

ANSWER E
5. abc is a three-digit number in which a is the hundreds digit, b is the tens digit, and c is the
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 2 0 3
units digit. Let &(abc)& = (2 )(3 )(5 ). For example, &(203)& = (2 )( 3 )(5 ) = 500. For how
many three-digit numbers abc does the function &(abc)& yield a prime number?

A. Zero
B. One
C. Two
D. Three
E. Nine

SOLUTION:
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
&abc&= (2 )(3 )(5 )
The required result is only possible when we have a 2 or a 3 or a 5 as the final value
1 0 0
I. &100&= (2 )(3 )(5 )= 3 digit number
0 1 0
II. &010&= (2 )(3 )(5 )= 2 digit number
0 0 1
III. &001&= (2 )(3 )(5 )= 1 digit number

The only possible value is 100

ANSWER B
Divisibility Rules :

1
a. Divisibility by 2 : Last digit of number must be even (0,2,4,6,8)
Example : 124, 12346 , 42XXXX2
NOTE :
So , if 124 is divided by 2 , the remainder is 0.
If 47 is divided by 2 , the remainder is 1.
If a number is not divisible by 2 , the remainder is 1.

2
b.Divisibility by 2 : Last 2 digits of number should be divisible by 4
Example : 1236, 1116, 1204
NOTE :
Last 2 digits of 1236 is 36. **The remainder when 36 is divided by 4 will be the same as the
remainder when 1236 is divided by 4 i.e 0.
So , if 1045 is divided by 4 , what’s the remainder ?
=> The remainder when 45(last 2 digits) is divided by 4 will be the same as the remainder when
1045 is divided by 4 i.e 1.

3
c. Divisibility by 2 : Last 3 digits of number should be divisible by 8
Example : 12104, 12128, 1160
NOTE :
Last 3 digits of 12104 are 104. **The remainder when 104 is divided by 8 will be the same as
the remainder when 12104 is divided by 8 i.e 0.
So , if 1045 is divided by 8 , what’s the remainder ?
=> The remainder when 045(last 3 digits) is divided by 8 will be the same as the remainder when
1045 is divided by 8 i.e 5.

4
Similarly for divisibility by 2 , last 4 digits should be divisible by 16.

d. Divisibility by 3 : Sum of the all digits should be divisible by 3

Example : 111, 162, 171, 1242
NOTE :
Take the number 1242.
The remainder when the Sum of the digits of this number( 1+2+4+2 = 9) is divided by 3 will be
the same as the remainder when the number 1242 is divided by 3 i.e 0.
So , if 123457 is divided by 3 , what’s the remainder ?
=> The remainder when the Sum of the digits of this number( 1+2+3+4+5+7 = 22) is divided by 3
will be the same as the remainder when the number 123457 is divisible by 3 i.e 1.

e.Divisibility by 9 : Sum of the all digits should be divisible by 9

Example : 162, 171, 1242
If 19191919 is divisible by 9 , what’s the remainder ?
=> The remainder when the Sum of the digits of this number (1+9+1+9+1+9+1+9=40) is divided
by 9 will be the same as the remainder when the number 19191919 is divisible by 9 i.e 4.

1
f. Divisibility by 5 : unit’s digit of number must be 0 or 5
Example : 10, 35, 60, 1200
NOTE :
When the unit’s digit of the number is 0 or 5 , the remainder is 0.
When the unit’s digit of the number is a value other than 0 or 5 , divide the unit’s digit by 5 to
get the remainder.
If 19191919 is divisible by 5 , what’s the remainder ?
=> When the unit’s digit of the number is 9, the remainder will be 4.

2
g. Divisibility by 5 : Last 2 digits of number should be divisible by 25
Example : 1125, 65450, 3475
NOTE :
When the Last 2 digits of the number are divisible by 25 , the remainder is 0.
When the Last 2 digits of the number are not divisible by 25, divide the Last 2 digits by 25 to get
the remainder.
If 19191919 is divisible by 25 , what’s the remainder ?
=> Last 2 digits (19) of the number when divided by 25 gives the remainder as 19.
So , 19191919 when divided by 25 gives the remainder as 19.
3
Similarly for divisibility by 5 , last 3 digits should be divisible by 125.
h. Divisibility by 11 : Difference between (sum of digits in odd places) and (sum of digits in even
places) should be divisible by 11.

Say there’s a 5 digit number abcde :

e is at the first odd place
c is at the second odd place
a is at the third odd place
d is at the first even place
b is at the second even place

Example : 1111, 1991, 919191 , 15345

NOTE :
In order to find the remainder , divide the Difference between (sum of digits in odd places) and
(sum of digits in even places) by 11.

Example : If 12345 is divided by 11 , what’s the remainder ?

=> Difference between (sum of digits in odd places = 5 + 3 + 1 = 9) and (sum of digits in even
places = 4 + 2 = 6) by 11.
9 - 6 = 3 when divided by 11 gives the remainder 3.
So , when 12345 is divided by 11 , the remainder is 3.

**If we get a negative difference , adding an 11 to it will give the final remainder.

APPLICATION :
If the number given is divisible by 22 , it should be divisible by 2 and 11.
If the number given is divisible by 24, it should be divisible by 3 and 8.
If the number given is divisible by 12, it should be divisible by 3 and 4.
If the number given is divisible by 15, it should be divisible by 3 and 5.
If the number given is divisible by 18, it should be divisible by 2 and 9.

Please note that the numbers that we are dividing the given number with are CO-PRIME.
QUESTIONS

1. For what minimum value of n, the product of all positive integers from 1 to n is evenly
divisible by 840 ?

A. 6
B. 7
C. 8
D. 12
E. 24

SOLUTION :
For the product to be divisible by 840, it should be a multiple of 840
1×2×3×4×.....×n = 840×k
Or, n!=840 k
Or, n! = 23 ×31×51×71 k
Now, let us look at the options:
A. 6! : Doesn’t have a 7. It won’t work. Eliminate it.
B. 7!= 7×6×5×4×3×2×1 = 23×32×5×7
It has 3 powers of 2, two powers of 3, 1 power of 5 and 1 power of 7. It will be a multiple 0f 840.
ANSWER B
2. A number is randomly chosen from the first 100 positive integers. What is the probability that
it is a multiple of 3?

32
A. 100
33
B. 100
1
C. 3
34
D. 100
2
E. 3

SOLUTION:
Total samples = 100
Favourable samples= 3×1, 3×2 , ....3×33
Total 33 favourable samples
33
Probability = 100
ANSWER B

20
3. If x is a number such that 0 < x ≤ 20, for how many values of x is 𝑥
an integer ?

A. Four
B. Six
C. Eight
D. Ten
E. More than ten

SOLUTION :
Given 0 < x ≤ 20
20
We need to find the number of values of x for which 𝑥
is an integer.
Note that it is not mentioned that x is an integer.
2 4 10 1 1 1
So, x can 1
, 1
, 1
, 2
, 4
, 3
and so on.
20
There will be infinite values of x for which 𝑥
is an integer.

ANSWER E
 Dividend = Divisor × Quotient + Remainder

4 = 3×1 + 3

Example : When a number is divided by a divisor it leaves a remainder 72. However, when twice
the number is divided by the same divisor the remainder obtained is 46. What could be the
possible value of the divisor ?

A.98
B.99
C.86
D.100
E.101

SOLUTION :
Let the number be N.
N = Divisor × Quotient 1 + 72 - - - - - (1)
2N = Divisor × Quotient 2 + 46 - - - - (2)
Taking the value of N from Equation (1) and substituting in Equation (2) , we get
2(Divisor × Quotient 1 + 72) = Divisor × Quotient 2 + 46
Divisor × ( Quotient 2 - 2×Quotient 1 ) = 98
Divisor × ( Some Positive Integer ) = 98
Only value possible from the option choices is 98.

ANSWER A
QUESTIONS
1. When integer y is divided by integer z, the quotient is equal to x. Which of the following
represents the remainder in terms of x, y, and z ?

A. x - yz
B. yz - x
C. y - xz
D. yz - x
E. xz - y

SOLUTION :
Here the divisor is z, Dividend is y and quotient is x.
We know that: Dividend= Divisor×Quotient + Remainder
y = z×x + Remainder
Remainder = y - xz
ANSWER C

2. If p is divisible by 7 and q is divisible by 6, pq must have at least how many factors greater
than 1 ?
A. One
B. Three
C. Six
D. Seven
E. Eight

SOLUTION :
p is a multiple of 7
So, p can be represented as 7a
q is a multiple of 6
So, q can be represented as 6b
Now, pq can be represented as 42ab
Possible values of pq are 42,84….
We need to take the minimum value of pq to find the least number of factors
pq = 42= 2×3×7
So, Total number of factors of 42= (1+1)(1+1)(1+1)= 2×2×2 = 8
Now, we need to find the number of factors greater than 1 i.e., 8-1=7 factors

ANSWER D
3. x and h are both positive integers. When x is divided by 7, the quotient is h with a remainder
of 3. Which of the following could be the value of x ?

A. 7
B. 21
C. 50
D. 52
E. 57

SOLUTION :

As per the question, x = 7h+3 where x and h are positive integers

The possible value of x can be represented as 7h+3
Checking the options
A. 7=7×1. It cannot be represented as 7h+3
B. 21 = 7×3. It cannot be represented as 7h+3
C. 50 =7×7+1. It cannot be represented as 7h+3
D. 52= 7×7+3. It can be represented as 7h+3
E. 57=7×8+1. It cannot be represented as 7h+3

ANSWER D
4. When the positive integer x is divided by 9, the remainder is 5. What is the remainder when
3x is divided by 9?
A. 0
B. 1
C. 3
D. 4
E. 6

SOLUTION:
Let the quotient be q
x = 9q + 5 - - - - (1)
We need to find the remainder when 3x is divided by 9
Multiplying the Equation by 3
3x=27q+15
When we divide 3x by 9, 27q is exactly divisible by 9 and the remainder is obtained by dividing
15 by 9. Remainder will be equal to 6
ANSWER E

5. After distributing the sweets equally among 25 children, 8 sweets remain. Had the number of
children been 28 , 22 sweets would have been left after equally distributing. Which of the
following COULD be the total number of sweets ?
A. 328
B. 348
C. 258
D. 358
E. 400

SOLUTION:
Let the total number of sweets be S
As per the question:
S=25a+8….(i)
S=28b+22…(ii)
Where a and b are the number of sweets that is equally divided when the number of children
are 25 and 28 respectively.
From the options, only 358 when divided by 25 gives 8 as the remainder and when divided by
28 gives 22 as the remainder.
ANSWER D
Power of Primes in Factorial:
What’s a factorial ?
n ! = Product of first n natural numbers = n×(n-1)×…………×3×2×1

0! = 1 (Just remember)
1! = 1
2! = 2
3! = 6
4! = 24
5! = 120
6! = 720
7! = 5040
8! = 40320

It is advisable to remember the factorial values till 8.

Example 1 : Find the highest power of 2 in 5!.

SOLUTION :
As the question tells us to find the highest power of 2(prime) in 5! , we can use the way
mentioned below :
Step 1 : Divide 5 by 2 , Quotient 1 = 2
Step 2 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 1 by 2 , Quotient 2 = 1
Step 3 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 2 by 2 , Quotient 3 = 0
(We should only stop this process when the final Quotient becomes 0)

So , Highest power of 2 in 5! will be ‘Sum of the Quotients’ obtained => 2 + 1 + 0 = 3

Example 2 : Find the highest power of 3 in 6!.

SOLUTION :
As the question tells us to find the highest power of 3(prime) in 6! , we can use the way
mentioned below :
Step 1 : Divide 6 by 3 , Quotient 1 = 2
Step 2 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 1 by 3 , Quotient 2 = 0
(We should only stop this process when the final Quotient becomes 0)
So , Highest power of 3 in 6! will be ‘Sum of the Quotients’ obtained => 2 + 0 = 2
Example 3 : Find the highest power of 10 in 15!.

SOLUTION :
As 10 is not a prime number , we need to break this number in terms of primes.
1 1
10 = 2 x 5
Here, the deciding power will be powers of 5 as powers of 2 in 15! Will be available in plenty.
Apply the process learnt earlier to find the powers of 5.

Step 1 : Divide 15 by 5 , Quotient 1 = 3

Step 2 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 1 by 5 , Quotient 2 = 0
(We should only stop this process when the final Quotient becomes 0)

So , Highest power of 5 in 15! will be ‘Sum of the Quotients’ obtained => 3 + 0 = 3

So , Highest power of 10 in 15! will also be 3.

Example 4 : How many trailing 0s does 49! + 50! have ?

SOLUTION :
To find trailing zeros we need to find the highest power of 10 in both numbers and 10 is made of
1 power of 2 and 1 power of 5. As powers of 2 will be available in plenty in both 49! and 50! ,
we will focus on powers of 5.

Highest power of 5 in 49!:

Step 1 : Divide 49 by 5 , Quotient 1 = 9
Step 2 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 1 by 5 , Quotient 2 = 1
Step 3 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 2 by 5 , Quotient 3 = 0
(We should only stop this process when the final Quotient becomes 0)

So , Highest power of 5 in 49! will be ‘Sum of the Quotients’ obtained => 9 + 1 + 0 = 10

So , Highest power of 10 in 49! will also be 10.
Highest power of 5 in 50!:
Step 1 : Divide 50 by 5 , Quotient 1 = 10
Step 2 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 1 by 5 , Quotient 2 = 2
Step 3 : Divide the Quotient obtained in Step 2 by 5 , Quotient 3 = 0
(We should only stop this process when the final Quotient becomes 0)

So , Highest power of 5 in 50! will be ‘Sum of the Quotients’ obtained => 10 + 2 + 0 = 12

So , Highest power of 10 in 50! will also be 12.

10 12 10
49! + 50! = 10 ×(something) + 10 ×(some other thing) = 10 ×[............]
10
{Taking 10 common}

49! = xxxxxxxx0000000000
50! = xxxxx..000000000000

When we add both numbers , we get 10 zeroes at the end.

QUESTIONS
1. How many powers of 900 are in 50! ?

A. 2
B. 4
C. 6
D. 8
E. 10

SOLUTION:
2 2 2
900= 2 × 3 × 5
The power of 2 and 3 will be available in plenty. So, We will be focusing on powers of 5 in 50!
Powers of 5 in 50! = 10 + 2 = 12
We need 2 powers of (2,3,5) to make 900.
So , 12 powers of 5 can give us 6 pairs.
So, there are 6 powers of 900 in 50! .

ANSWER C

𝑞
2. If the number 200! is written in the form p × 10 , where p and q are integers, what is the
maximum possible value of q ?

A. 40
B. 48
C. 49
D. 55
E. 64

SOLUTION:
We need to find the maximum powers of 10 in 200!
We have plenty of 2’s, we will find out the powers of 5’s in 200! which will decide the maximum
powers of 10.
Maximum powers of 10 = 40 + 8 + 1 = 49

ANSWER C
 𝑚
3. What is the greatest value of m such that 4 is a factor of 30! ?

A. 13
B. 12
C. 11
D. 7
E. 6

SOLUTION :

Let us find the powers of 2 in 30! as 4 is not a prime number.

Total Powers of 2 in 30! will be 15+7+3+1 = 26
We need two pairs of 2, in order to get 4
So, (226) =(22)13 =(4)13
So, the highest value of m is 13

ANSWER A
Unit Digit’s Cyclicity :
2
(2) = X4
2
(12) = XX4
2
(102) = XXXX4
As we can see , irrespective of the number that we square , if it has 2 at the unit’s place , the
result will have 4 at its unit’s place.

Cyclicity of 2 : (Cyclicity = 4)

1/5/9/13/.... 2/6/10/14/.... 3/7/11/15/... 4/8/12/16/...

2 2 2 2
Unit Digit : 2 4 8 6

4
As we can see , powers of 2 gets repeated after 2 . So , 2 has a cyclicity of 4.
4/8/12/16/20..... 4𝑘 𝑀𝑈𝐿𝑇𝐼𝑃𝐿𝐸 𝑂𝐹 4
NOTE : Our reference point is going to be 2 =2 =2 = XXXX6

103 100 3
Example : Unit digit of 2 =2 ×2 = (XXX6)×(8) = xxxx8
100
Another way to look at this is to imagine that you are at 2 . You need to add 3 more powers of
103 3/7/11/15/........103
2. So 2 will have the same unit’s digit as 2

4/8/12/16/20.....
In the same way , we can find the cyclicity of 3,7,8. Reference will again be 3 ,
4/8/12/16/20..... 4/8/12/16/20.....
7 ,8 respectively.
Cyclicity of 3 : (Cyclicity = 4)
Cyclicity of 7 : (Cyclicity = 4)
Cyclicity of 8 : (Cyclicity = 4)
Cyclicity of 4 : (Cyclicity = 2)
1/3/5/7/.... 2/4/6/8/....
4 4
Unit Digit : 4 6
4 has a cyclicity of 2.
𝑂𝑑𝑑
4 = XXXXXX4
𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑛
4 = XXXXXX6
Cyclicity of 9 : (Cyclicity = 2)
Cyclicity of 5 and 6 : (Cyclicity = 1)
 10
Example : What will be the remainder when 7 is divided by 100 ?
` A. 1
B. 7
C. 43
D. 49
E. 70

SOLUTION :
4/8/12 8
As we know that 7 has a cyclicity of 4, we will refer to 7 = XXX1. 7 will have 1 at the unit’s
2/6/10...
place. We need to add 2 powers of 7. So , 7 = XXXX9
10 2
Unit digit of 7 = Unit digit of 7 = 9
We have no idea about what will come at the ten’s place. But looking at the option choices , we
10
can say that 7 is divided by 100 , we can have 49 as the remainder.

ANSWER D

QUESTIONS
1. What is the units digit of 134×172×293 ?

A. 9
B. 7
C. 5
D. 3
E. 1

SOLUTION :
As we know that the last digit of 34 is 1, 72 is 9 and 93 is 9
So, the last digit of 134×172×293 will be (xx1) × (xx9) × (xx9) = 1

ANSWER E
2. What is the unit digit of 18! + 4! ?

A. 0
B. 1
C. 2
D. 3
E. 4

SOLUTION :
Any number above 4! will have at least one 5, so it is going to end with a 0. So , 18! will end with
a 0. The last digit of the expression will depend on 4!
4! = 24
18! + 4! = [xxxxxx0]+ [x4]
So, the last digit of the expression 18! + 4! Is 4.

ANSWER E

1 2 3 9
3. What is the remainder when 9 + 9 + 9 + . . . .+ 9 is divided by 6 ?

A. 0
B. 3
C. 2
D. 5
E. None of the above

SOLUTION:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
We have 9 +( 9 + 9 + 9 + 9 + 9 + 9 + 9 + 9 )
We know that (Odd)Anything is always odd. In the bracket we have 8 odd multiples of 3 OR 9.
The sum of the bracket will be an even multiple of 3 i.e a multiple of 6.
The Remainder of the bracket will be 0.
We are left with the first term 9 which when divided by 6 yields a remainder 3

ANSWER B
Rounding off the numbers :

2 1 0 −1 −2 −3
abc.def = 𝑎 × 10 + 𝑏 × 10 + 𝑐 × 10 + 𝑑 × 10 + 𝑒 × 10 + 𝑓 × 10

d = tenth’s place
b = ten’s place
e = hundredth’s places
a = hundred’s place

Rounding off is simplifying a number to a certain place value.

Example :
a. 5.3485 rounded to the nearest tenth = 5.3, since the dropped 4 is less than 5.
b. 5.3485 rounded to the nearest hundredth = 5.35, since the dropped 8 is greater than 5.
c. 5.3485 rounded to the nearest thousandth = 5.349, since the dropped 5 is equal to 5.
d. 1.425 rounded to the nearest hundredth = 1.43, since the dropped 5 is equal to 5.

QUESTIONS
1. If n = 2.0453 and n* is the decimal obtained by rounding n to the nearest hundredth, what is
the value of n* – n ?

A. -0.0053
B. -0.0003
C. 0.0007
D. 0.0047
E. 0.0153

SOLUTION :
n = 2.0453
The hundredth digit is 4.
Hence, n* = 2.05
n*- n = 2.05 - 2.0453 = 0.0047

ANSWER D
2. If [z] denotes the least integer greater than or equal to z and [z2] = 2, which of the following
could be the value of [z] ?
I. 2
II. 1
III. -2

A. I only
B. II only
C. III only
D. I and II only
E. II and III only

SOLUTION:
[z2] = 2
2
=> 1 < 𝑧 ≤ 2
2 2
=> 𝑧 > 1 and 𝑧 ≤ 2
=> (z - 1)(z + 1) > 0 and (z - 2)(z + 2) ≤ 0

So - 2 ≤ z < 1 OR 1 < z ≤ 2
So, [z] could be -1 [ for - 2 ≤ z < 1 ] OR 2 [ for 1 < z ≤ 2 ]

ANSWER A
3. If [x] is the greatest integer less than or equal to x, what is the value of [-1.6] + [3.4] + [2.7] ?

A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 6
E. 7

SOLUTION :
Greatest integer function rounds down the number to the nearest integer according to the
information given.

[-1.6] = -2
[3.4] = 3
[2.7]= 2

[-1.6] + [3.4] + [2.7]

=(-2) + 3 + 2
=3

ANSWER A
4. [x] is the greatest integer less than or equal to the real number x. How many natural numbers
n satisfy the equation [√n]=17 ?

A. 17
B. 34
C. 35
D. 36
E. 38

SOLUTION:
[√n]=17
By definition, [x] is the greatest integer less than or equal to the real number x.
17≤ √n < 18
Squaring the expression, 289 ≤ n < 324
Thus, n can take values from 289 to 323
Total number of values = 35
ANSWER C

Factor Theorem :
Example 1 :
2
F(x) = 𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 6, if (x + 3) is a factor of F(x) , then find the remainder.

SOLUTION :
This means that (x + 3) divides the given expression. This also means that if we put x + 3 = 0 => x
= -3 in the expression , our expression will become 0.
F(-3) = (9) + (-15) + 6 = 0. The value of F(-3) is the value of the remainder.
If (x + 3) is a factor , then the remainder will be 0.

Example 2 :
3
F(x) = 2𝑥 + 6𝑥 + 7, Is (x + 1) a factor of F(x)?.

SOLUTION :
In order to check whether (x + 1) divides the given expression , Put x + 1 = 0 => x = -1 in the
expression. If F(-1) comes out to be 0 , then we are sure that (x + 1) is a factor of F(x).
F(-1) = (-2) + (-6) + 7 = -1
Hence , (x + 1) is NOT a factor of F(x).
Also , the value of F(-1) which is -1 here will be the remainder.
QUESTIONS
1. Find the remainder when t3 -2t2 + t + 1 is divided by t – 1.

SOLUTION :
Let us put t-1=0 => t = 1, in the expression t3-2t2+t+1
The value of f(1) will be the remainder.
f(1)= (1)3-2(1)2+1+1=1-2+1+1=1
So, the remainder when t3- 2t2 + t + 1 is divided by t-1 is 1.

2. Consider the cubic x3-14x2+63x-90. Confirm using the factor theorem whether (x-3),(x-6), and
(x-5) are factors of this cubic expression.

SOLUTION :
In order to check whether (x-3), (x-6) and (x-5) divides the given expression, put x = 3,6 and 5 in
the expression. If the value comes out to be 0 , then we are sure that they are factors of F(x) =
x3-14x2+63x-90.

(i) F(3)= (3)3- 14(3)2 + 63(3) - 90

= 27-126 + 189 - 90
=0
Hence, (x-3) is a factor of the expression x3- 14x2+ 63x - 90

(ii) F(6)= (6)3-14(6)2+63(6)- 90

= 216 - 504 + 378 - 90
=0
Hence, (x - 6) is a factor of the expression x3- 14x2 + 63x - 90.

(iii) F(5)= (5)3-14(5)2+63(5) - 90

=125 - 350 + 315 - 90
=0
Hence, (x-5) is a factor of the expression x3-14x2+ 63x - 90.
 ALGEBRA CONCEPTS

Functions

y = f(x) = x + 1
y is a function of x ⇒ y is dependent on x. x is an independent variable.
f(1) = 1 + 1 = 2
f(2) = 2 + 1 = 3
f(a) = a + 1
f(b) = b + 1

Given that y = f(x) = x + 1 , Is f (a + b) = f(a) + f(b) ?

f(a + b) = a + b + 1
f(a) + f(b) = a + b + 2

So, f(a + b) ≠ f(a) + f(b)

Finding f(g(x)), g(f(x)), f(f(x)), g(g(x)) and so on…..

2
f(x) = x + 1 and g(x) = 𝑥

2
f(g(x)) = g(x) + 1 = 𝑥 + 1
2 2
g(f(x)) = (𝑓(𝑥)) = (𝑥 + 1)
f(f(x)) = f(x) + 1 = x + 1 + 1 = x + 2
2 4
g(g(x)) = (𝑔(𝑥)) = 𝑥

IMPORTANT :
2
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓(𝑥))
3
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓(𝑓(𝑥)))
𝑛 𝑛−1
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓 (𝑥))
Questions

2 3 4
1. If f(x) = x , then find 𝑓 (𝑥), 𝑓 (𝑥) and 𝑓 (𝑥)

SOLUTION :
2
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓(𝑥)) = f(x) = x
3 2
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓 (𝑥)) = f(x) = x
4 3
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓 (𝑥)) = f(x) = x

1 100 201
2. If f(x) = 𝑥
then find the value of 𝑓 (2) + 𝑓 (2).

SOLUTION :
Try finding a pattern.
1
f(x) = 𝑥
2 1
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓(𝑥)) = 𝑓( 𝑥 ) = x
3 2 1
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓 (𝑥)) = f(x) = 𝑥
4 3 1
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑓 (𝑥)) = f( 𝑥 ) = x
We have found the pattern!!!
𝑛 𝑛 1
𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑥 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛 and 𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑥
𝑖𝑓 𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑜𝑑𝑑
100 201 1
𝑓 (2) = 2 and 𝑓 (2) = 2
100 201 5
𝑓 (2) + 𝑓 (2) = 2
 −1 −1 1
3. A function f is defined by f(x) = 𝑥
for all non zero numbers x. If f(a) = 2
and f(ab) = 6
then
b=?

A. 3
1
B. 3
−1
C. 3
D. -3
E. -12

SOLUTION :
−1 −1
f(a) = 𝑎
= 2 ⇒a=2
−1 1
f(ab) = 𝑎𝑏 = 6 ⇒ ab = -6 ⇒ b = -3 (since a = 2)
ANSWER D

4. Let f(a) = a - 5 and g(b) = 5 - b. What is the value of |f(x)| - |g(x)| + |f(g(x)| ?
A. |x - 10|
B. 3x + 10
C. Ix❘
D. |x - 5|
E. x

SOLUTION :
f(x) = x - 5 and g(x) = 5 - x
f(g(x)) = g(x) - 5 = 5 - x - 5 = -x

|f(x)| - |g(x)| + |f(g(x)| = |x - 5| - | 5 - x| + |-x|

Since |x - 5| and | 5 - x| will give the same result , we can cancel them out.

So , |f(x)| - |g(x)| + |f(g(x)| = 0 + |-x| = |x|

(If you are doubtful here , check x = 1 and -1. You will find that Only Option C works)

ANSWER C
5. The figure above shows the graph of the function f in the
xy-plane. What is the value of ƒ(ƒ(−1)) ?

A. -2
B. -1
C. 0
D. 1
E. 2

SOLUTION :

f(-1) represents the value of the graph when x = -1. f(-1) = 2 according to the graph.
So , ƒ(ƒ(−1)) = f (2) = 1
ANSWER D
 Sequences

Arithmetic Progression(AP):
AP Series : Difference between consecutive terms is same
Example :
2, 4, 6, 8, 10 …. (diff = 2)
100 , 50 , 0 , -50 , …(diff = -50)

a. If we have even number of terms in AP series, then sum of this AP series will be,

Example : 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 ( number of terms = 6 )

Sum = number of terms x (Average of equidistant terms)

1𝑠𝑡 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 2𝑛𝑑 + 2𝑛𝑑 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 = 2
= 2
and so on.

2 + 12 4 +10
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 = 2
= 2
= 7

Sum = 6 x 7 = 42

b. If we have odd number of terms in AP series, then sum of this AP series will be,

Example : 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 ( number of terms = 5 )

Sum = number of terms x (Average of equidistance terms)

Middle term will not have any pair.

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 will also be equal to the middle term .

1𝑠𝑡 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 2𝑛𝑑 + 2𝑛𝑑 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 2
= ......... = 𝑚𝑖𝑑𝑑𝑙𝑒 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 .

2 + 10 4 +8
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 2
= ........ = 6 = 6

Sum = 5 x 6 = 30
AP : Say the first term is ‘a’ and there’s an increase of ‘d’ (d can be positive or negative)

a , a + d, a + 2d, ……………… , a + (n -1)d

Difference between consecutive terms is the same i.e d. This ‘d’ is also known as the common
difference. There are a total of n terms here and the difference between consecutive terms is d.

Sum = n x (Average of equidistance terms)

1𝑠𝑡 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑎 + 𝑎 + (𝑛−1)𝑑

𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 2

𝑛
Sum = 2
(2𝑎 + (𝑛 − 1)𝑑)

NOTE :
𝑎+𝑐
If a,b,c are in AP , then b-a = c-b => 2b = a + c => b = 2

Example 1 : Find the sum of 1 + 2 + 3 + ………….. + 8.

SOLUTION :

The given series is in AP with 8 terms and the first term is 1.

1+8
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 4. 5

Sum = n x (Average of equidistance terms)

Sum = 8 x 4.5 = 36
Example 2 : Find the sum of 3 + 4 + 5 + ………. + 15

SOLUTION :
The given series is in AP with the first term as 3.
To find the number of terms :
From the first term to the last term , there’s a difference or a gap of 12. (15 -3)
Between every consecutive term, there’s a difference or a gap of 1.
So, 1 gap = 1 , So a difference or a gap of 12 will correspond to 12 gaps.

If there’s 1 gap , there are 2 terms . (3,4)

If there are 2 gaps ,there are 3 terms. (3,4,5)
If there are 9 gaps , there are 10 terms.
Hope you understand where we are going !!
So , if there are 12 gaps , there will be 12 + 1 = 13 terms

3 + 15
𝐴𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 2
= 9

Sum = n x (Average of equidistance terms)

Sum = 13 x 9 = 117

REMEMBER !!!
In an AP ,
Number of terms = number of gaps + 1
𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 − 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚
Number of gaps = 𝑉𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝑜𝑓 1 𝐺𝑎𝑝

Example 3 : Find the 100th term of the series : 1, 8, 15, ………. . .

SOLUTION :
If we were to go to the 100th term from the first term , we would encounter 99 gaps.
1 Gap = +7 , So 99 Gaps will be equal to 99× 7 i.e 693
So , we need to add 693 to the first term in order to reach the 100th term.
100th term = 1 + 693 = 694
CONVENTIONALLY :
To find the nth term , we have
nth term = first term + (n - 1)× (difference between consecutive terms)
100th term = 1 + (99)× 7 = 694

Example 4 : Find the 1st term of an AP if the 15th term is 100 and the difference is -4.

SOLUTION :
Between the 1st and the 15th term , there will be 14 gaps. 1 Gap is -4 , So 14 Gaps will be -56.
If we were to go from 15th term back to 1st term , we need to add 56 to the 15th term.
Why ?
As we are moving from 1st term to 15th term , we are subtracting 56 from the first term. This is
a decreasing sequence. So , as we move from the 15th term to the 1st term , we need to add
56.

ANSWER : 156

CONVENTIONALLY :
nth term = first term + (n - 1)× (difference between consecutive terms)
100 = first term + 14× (-4)
first term = 156
Questions

1. If the terms of a certain sequence are defined by the equation An= An−1+ n for all n, what is
the value of An in terms of An+1?

A. An+1 − 1
B. An+1+ n + 1
C. An+1 − n
D. An+1 − n − 1
E. An+1 − n + 1

SOLUTION :

From the given equation, we can express An in terms of An+1 as follows :

An= An−1+ n - - - - - (i)

Putting n = n + 1 in the equation

An+1= An+ n + 1

⇒An= An+1− n −1

ANSWER D
2. The sum of the fourth and twelfth term of an arithmetic progression is 20. What is the sum of
the first 15 terms of the arithmetic progression?

A. 300
B. 120
C. 150
D. 170
E. 270

SOLUTION :
There are a total of 15 terms.
If we see clearly , the fourth and twelfth term in a sequence of 15 terms will be equidistant.

We know Sum = number of terms × Average of equidistant terms

The sum of the fourth and twelfth term of an arithmetic progression is 20.
20
So, the average of the equidistant terms(4th and 12th) will be 2
= 10
We know the number of terms = 15

Sum = 15×10 = 150

Alternatively , you can solve this question using the n-th term formula and Sum of n terms
formula. Do give it a try !!

ANSWER C
3. If the sum of the first 31 terms of an arithmetic progression consisting 46 terms is zero, then
which of the following MUST be true? (An arithmetic progression is a sequence of numbers such
that the difference between the consecutive terms is constant)

I. 31st smallest term is zero

II. 16th largest term is zero
III. The sum of the largest and smallest terms of the sequence is positive

A. I only
B. II only
C. III only
D. I and II only
E. None of the above

SOLUTION :
Given that the sum of the first 31 terms of an arithmetic progression is zero, it implies that the
16th term (the middle term) is zero.

Statements I , II :

We don't know whether the sequence is increasing or decreasing. Let’s consider two arithmetic
sequences:

Sequence S1 ranging from -15 to 30

Sequence S2 ranging from 15 to -30

However, this does not necessarily mean that the 31st smallest term or the 16th largest term is
zero, as demonstrated by the two different arithmetic progressions (P1 and P2).

In sequence S2, the 16th largest term and the 31st smallest term are both 0. However, these
conditions do not hold true for sequence S1. (CHECK!!!)

So , Statements I , II may not be true.

Statement III :

We don't know whether the sequence is increasing or decreasing. Let’s consider two arithmetic
sequences:

Sequence S1 ranging from -15 to 30

Sequence S2 ranging from 15 to -30

Similarly, the sum of the largest and smallest terms of the sequence can be either positive or
negative, depending on the specific sequence.
The sum of the largest and smallest terms in sequence S1 is positive, while in sequence S2, it is
negative.

Therefore, none of the statements I, II, and III must be true .

ANSWER E
4. A man arranges to pay off a debt of $3600 by 40 annual installments which are in arithmetic
progression. When 30 of the installments are paid,he dies leaving one-third of the debt unpaid.
What was the value of the 8th installment ?

A. $35
B. $50
C. $65
D. $70
E. $75

SOLUTION :
You need to know the basic properties of terms that are in A.P :

𝑛{ 1𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚 + 𝑙𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚}

(1) The Sum of n terms in an A.P. is given by 2
...(i)
(2)Also any given term in an AP can be found if we know the first term and common diff.
nth term= a + (n-1)d ...(ii)

Sum of 40 terms = 3600

40
=> 2
[2a+(40−1)d] = 3600
=> 2a + 39 d = 180 - - - - - - - (i)

When 30 of the instalments are paid,he dies leaving one-third of the debt unpaid
Sum of last 10 terms = ⅓ of (3600) = 1200
So, Sum of first 30 terms = 2400
30
=> 2
[2a+(30−1)d] = 2400
=> 2a + 29d = 160 - - - - - - - (ii)

Equation (i) - (ii) gives d = 2

Put d = 2 in Equation (i) to get a = 51

So , 8th instalment = a + 7d = 51 + 7(2) = 65.

ANSWER C
Geometric Progression(GP) :

1 1 1 1 1
1, 2
, 4
, 8
, 16
. . . . . . . . (Every consecutive term gets multiplied by 2
)
4 , -8 , 16 , -32 , . . . . . . . . . . (Every consecutive term gets multiplied by -2)

1 2 3 𝑛−1
a , a𝑟 , a𝑟 , a𝑟 . . . . . . . . . . . .a𝑟 (Every consecutive term gets multiplied by r)

r = common ratio
a = first term

0
1st term = a𝑟
1
2nd term = a𝑟
2
3rd term = a𝑟
3
4th term = a𝑟
.
.
.
.
.
𝑛−1
nth term = a𝑟

𝑛
𝑎(1 − 𝑟 )
Sum of n terms = (1 − 𝑟)

𝑏 𝑐 2
If a , b , c are in GP ; then 𝑎
= 𝑏
=> 𝑏 = ac

𝑎
Sum of infinite terms of a GP = (1 − 𝑟)
Example 1 : A certain sequence is defined by the following rule: 𝑆𝑛=k(𝑆𝑛−1), where k is a
constant. If 𝑆1 = 64 and 𝑆25 = 192, what is the value of 𝑆9?

SOLUTION :
The sequence is a GP with common ratio k.
(every consecutive term is multiplied by k)

𝑆1 = 64 = a
24
𝑆25 = 192 = a𝑟

𝑆1 1 64 24 24

𝑆25
= 24 = 192
⇒ 𝑟 =3 ⇒ r= 3
𝑟

8 1
8 3
𝑆9 = 𝑎𝑟 = 64 (3) 24 = 64 (3) 3 = 64 3

2 3 4 5 6
Example 2 : What is the value of 7 + 6 × 7 + 6 × 7 + 6 × 7 + 6 × 7 + 6 × 7 + 6 × 7 ?

SOLUTION :
2 3 4 5 6
S=7+6×7+6×7 +6×7 +6×7 +6×7 +6×7
2 3 4 5 6
S=7+6{7+7 +7 +7 + 7 + 7 }
S = 7 + 6T ………………….. (1)
2 3 4 5 6
T = 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 + 7 : GP with a = 7 and common ratio r = 7
6 6
(1 − 7 ) 7( 7 −1) 7
T=7 (1 − 7)
= 6
⇒ 6T = 7 − 7
Putting the value of 6T in Equation (1) , we get
7 7
S=7+7 − 7=7
Questions

1. In a sequence 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, ... each term after the first is twice the previous term. What is
the sum of the 16th, 17th and 18th terms in the sequence ?

A. 218

B. 3(217)

C. 7(216)

D. 3(216)

E. 7(215)

SOLUTION :
Each term after the first is twice the previous term : This tells us that the sequence is GP.
Let 𝑎1, 𝑎2 ,𝑎3. . . . . .𝑎𝑛 be the terms of the GP.
a1=20=1
a2=21=2
a3=22=4
...
an= 2n−1

Thus a16 + a17 + a18

15 16 17
=> 2 +2 +2
15
=> 2 (1+ 2 + 4)
15
=> 7(2 )

ANSWER E
2. If in a geometric progression the fifth term is 8 times the second term and the sum of the
first, third and sixth terms is 111, what is the 7th term?

A. 192
B. 208
C. 224
D. 225
E. 416

SOLUTION :
Let the first term be a.
𝑛−1
nth term in a geometric sequence = a𝑟
The fifth term is 8 times the second term:
=> ar4= 8ar (a is non - zero ; hence we can divide)
=> 8 = r3
=> r = 2

Sum of the first, third and sixth terms is 111:

a + ar2+ ar5 = 111

Substituting r = 2 in the above equation ;

a + 4a + 32a = 111
37a = 111
a=3

6 7−1 6
7th term = a𝑟 = 3( 2 ) = 3(2 ) =192

ANSWER A
3. If the fourth term of a geometric progression is 5 and the seventh term is - 40, what is the
Sum of the first five terms?

−55
A. 8
19
B. 8
C. 3
33
D. 8
55
E. 8

SOLUTION :

Let a be the first term and r be the common ratio.

3
Fourth term = a𝑟 = 5 - - - - -(i)
6
Seventh term = a𝑟 = -40 - - - - (ii)

On Dividing Equation (ii) by Equation (i) , we get

3
=> 𝑟 = - 8
=> r = -2
−5
Putting r = -2 in Equation (i) we get a = 8
5
𝑎(1−𝑟 ) −5(33) −55
Sum of the first five terms = (1−𝑟)
= 8(3)
= 8

ANSWER A
4. A ball drops from a certain height. The height it will reach after rebounding from the floor is
80 percent of the previous height. The total travel is 3,104 cm when it touches the floor for the
third time. What is the value of the original height, in cm?

A. 400 cm
B. 500 cm
C. 600 cm
D. 700 cm
E. 800 cm

SOLUTION :

Let x be the ball's original height.

So, x = distance of the ball's first DROP

And 0.8x = distance of the ball's first RISE
0.8x = distance of the ball's second DROP
(0.8)(0.8x) = distance of the ball's second RISE
(0.8)(0.8x) = distance of the ball's third DROP

At this point, the ball touches the ground for the third time.
So, the TOTAL distance = x + 0.8x + 0.8x + (0.8)(0.8x) + (0.8)(0.8x) = 3104 cm
=> x + 0.8x + 0.8x + 0.64x + 0.64x = 3104
=> 3.88x = 3104
=> x = 800

ANSWER E
User Defined Sequences

These types of questions will be related to a certain pattern. The pattern could be anything.
Help should be taken from the question stem itself.

Example 1 : Find the value of the expression

1 1 1 1
+ + +............. .........+
1+ 2 2+ 3 3+ 4 1599 + 1600

SOLUTION :
Try simplifying as it's difficult to work with a square root.
1 1 1 2− 1 2− 1
1st term = = = × = 2−1
= 2 − 1
1+ 2 2+ 1 2+ 1 2− 1

1
Similarly, 2nd term = = 3 − 2 and so on.
2+ 3
So Value of given expression will be
= 2 − 1+ 3 − 2 +.................... + 1600 − 1599

=> Most of the values will get cancelled and we will be left with only 2 values.

=> − 1 + 1600 = -1 + 40 = 39
Example 2 : For all n such that n is a positive integer, the terms of a certain sequence B are given
by the following rules:

𝐵𝑛 = 𝐵𝑛−1 + 5 if n is odd and greater than 1;

𝐵𝑛 = -𝐵𝑛−1 if n is even;
𝐵1 = 3
What is the sum of the first 65 terms in the sequence?

SOLUTION :

We are finding a few values to see if there’s a pattern involved.

Odd terms Value Even terms Value

𝐵1 3 𝐵2 -3

𝐵3 2 𝐵4 -2

𝐵5 3 𝐵6 -3

𝐵7 2 𝐵8 -2

You can see the sum of the first four terms is zero. (𝐵1+𝐵2+ 𝐵3+ 𝐵4 = 0)
Values start repeating after a cycle of 4. (𝐵1= 𝐵5= 𝐵9 =. . .= 3) (𝐵2= 𝐵6= 𝐵10 =. . .= -3) and so on.
Sum of the next four terms will also be 0 and so on.

So, Sum of the first 65 terms = Sum of the first 64 terms + 65th term = 0 + 𝐵65 = 𝐵1 = 3
Questions :

1
1. In a certain sequence, the first term is -4, and every term thereafter is defined by 2 * |x| * 2
,
where x = preceding term. What is the sum of the first 300 terms ?

A. Cannot be determined
B. 0
C. 1186
D. 1192
E. 1200

SOLUTION :
𝑡𝑛 = current term
𝑡𝑛−1= preceding term

1
So , 𝑡𝑛 = 2 × |𝑡𝑛−1| × 2
= |𝑡𝑛−1|

We know that 𝑡1 = − 4
So, 𝑡2 = 4
𝑡3 = 4
.
.
𝑡299 = 4
(Every term thereafter will be 4)

So, Sum of the first 300 terms = -4 + 4 x 299 = 1192

ANSWER D
2. In a certain sequence, the term 𝑎𝑛 is defined as the value of x that satisfies the equation
𝑥
2= 2
− 𝑎𝑛−1 . If 𝑎6 = 156, what is the value of 𝑎2 ?

A. 1
B. 6
C. 16
D. 26
E. 106

SOLUTION :
Let's rearrange the equation
𝑥
2= 2
− 𝑎𝑛−1

𝑥
2
= 2 + 𝑎𝑛−1

x = 2 𝑎𝑛−1 + 4
x = 𝑎𝑛 (GIVEN)
So , 𝑎𝑛 = 2 𝑎𝑛−1 + 4

Approach: Find the value asked (𝑎2) with the help of the value given.
=> 𝑎6 = 2 𝑎5 + 4
=> 156 = 2 𝑎5 + 4
=> 𝑎5 = 76
Similarly , 𝑎5 = 2 𝑎4 + 4 .
𝑎4 comes out to be 36.
In the same manner , 𝑎4 = 2 𝑎3 + 4 .
𝑎3 comes out to be 16.
𝑎3 = 2 𝑎2 + 4
𝑎2 = 6

ANSWER B
3. In town A, the price of tea is defined by the expression $(100 + 0.10n) on the nth day of 2019,
where n = 1, 2, ..., 100 and then remains constant. On the other hand, the price of coffee is
defined by the expression $(89 + 0.15n) on the nth day of 2019, where n = 1, 2, ..., 365. On
which day of the year prices of tea and coffee will be equal in town A?

A. May 21
B. April 11
C. May 20
D. April 10
E. June 30

SOLUTION :

If we see the option choices, all the dates correspond to at least 100 days from the start of the
year. We know that the price of tea rises every day till the 100th day and then remains constant
for the rest of the year whereas the price of coffee increases every day throughout the year.

So on the 100th day , price of tea will be 100 + 0.10×100 = 110

This price remains the same until the end of the year.

Whereas, Coffee will be the same price as that of tea when :

89 + 0.15n = 110
0.15n = 21
15n = 2100
n = 140

So on the 140th day tea and coffee will have the same price in town A.
In a normal year January has 31 days, February has 28 days, March 31 days, and April 30 days.
Adding these days gives us 31+28+31+30=120 , which leaves 20 days to get the full 140 days,
meaning on the 20th of May, the prices of tea and coffee will be the same.

ANSWER C
4. For every positive even integer n, the function h(n) is defined to be the product of all the
even integers from 2 to n, inclusive. If p is the smallest prime factor of h(100) +1, then p is ?

A. Between 2 and 10
B. Between 10 and 20
C. Between 20 and 30
D. Between 30 and 40
E. Greater than 40

SOLUTION :
Let's go step by step...

h(100) = (2.4.6.8......100)

There are 50 even numbers between 2 and 100 inclusive

Hence there are 50 "2s"

50 50
H(100) = 2 × (1.2.3.4......49.50) = 2 × 50

H(100) + 1 and H(100) are consecutive numbers.

Note - two consecutive numbers are co-primes

(i.e. they don't have any common factor other than 1)

We see that the highest prime factor of H(100) is 47. Also , H(100) includes every prime factor
till 47.
So, H(100) + 1 can't have a prime factor smaller than 50.

ANSWER E
 Linear Equations

ax + by = c (Highest power of the variables is 1)

Let's say there are two simultaneous equations in two variables x and y.

𝑎1𝑥 + 𝑏1𝑦 = 𝑐1
𝑎2𝑥 + 𝑏2𝑦 = 𝑐2

You can solve the two equations by

1. Taking the value of x from equation (1) and putting into equation (2) to find the value of y.
OR
2. Multiplying both the equations by different constants and then adding/subtracting the
equations to eliminate x. We can then get the value of y.

Once we get the value of y , we can put this value into any one of the equations to get the value
of x.

VISUAL Examples CONDITION Type of solutions

2x + 3y = 12 𝑎1 𝑏1 Unique
𝑎2
≠ 𝑏2
x+y=5 solution

2x + 3y = 12 𝑎1 𝑏1 𝑐1 No
𝑎2
= 𝑏2
≠ 𝑐2
6x + 9y = 20 solution

2x + 3y = 12 𝑎1 𝑏1 𝑐1 Infinite
𝑎2
= 𝑏2
= 𝑐2
4x + 6y = 24 solution
Example : x - cy = 1 and cx - 4y = c
If c is a given constant such that the system of equations given above has exactly one solution,
which of the following must be true?

A. c > 0
B. lcl > 1
C. lcl < 1
D. lcl = 2
E. lcl ≠ 2

SOLUTION :
Let's say there are two simultaneous equations in two variables x and y.

𝑎1𝑥 + 𝑏1𝑦 = 𝑐1
𝑎2𝑥 + 𝑏2𝑦 = 𝑐2

For a unique solution , the condition is

𝑎1 𝑏1 1 −𝑐 2
𝑎2
≠ 𝑏2
⇒ 𝑐
≠ −4
⇒ 𝑐 ≠ 4 ⇒ lcl ≠ 2

ANSWER E
Questions

1. Zeta took several pictures with her new digital camera. Each picture was saved as a file, the
size of which depended on the picture's resolution. A low-resolution image requires a
0.5-megabyte file, and a high-resolution image requires a 0.9-megabyte file. If the total size of
all the files was 8.1 megabytes, which of the following is a possible number of pictures Zeta took
with her camera?

A. 15
B. 14
C. 13
D. 12
E. 11

SOLUTION :

Let the 0.5-megabyte photos be x, let the 0.9 megabyte photos be y.

0.5x + 0.9y = 8.1
=> 5x + 9y = 81 - - - - - - -(i)
We know that x and y need to be integers.
81 − 9𝑦 80 − 10𝑦 1+𝑦
=> x = 5
= 5
+ 5

80 − 10𝑦 1+𝑦
5
= As this term is exactly divisible by 5 , we only care about the second term ( 5
)
being an INTEGER.
So , y = 4 or 9 are possible values.
From the equation,
When y = 4 , x = 9 , total pictures = x + y = 13
When y = 9 , x = 0 , total pictures = x + y = 9

ANSWER C
2. If 2x + 5y = 8 and 3x = 2y , what is the value of 2x + y ?

A. 4
70
B. 19
64
C. 19
56
D. 19
40
E. 19

SOLUTION :

2x + 5y = 8 - - - - - -Eq. [1]
3x - 2y = 0 - - - - - -Eq. [2]
Rearranging the terms of the second equation, we have:
3𝑥
y= 2
Substitute the value of y in Equation 1
3𝑥
2x + 5( 2
)=8
19𝑥
=> 2
=8
16
=> x = 19
3𝑥 24
=> So , y = 2
= 19
Put the value of x and y in the desired form
32 24 56
2x + y = 19
+ 19
= 19

ANSWER D
3. Lois has x dollars more than Jim has, and together they have a total of y dollars. Which of the
following represents the number of dollars that Jim has?

𝑦−𝑥
A. 2
𝑥
B. y- 2
𝑦
C. 2
-x
D. 2y - x
E. y - 2x

SOLUTION :
J = number of dollars Jim has
L = number of dollars Lois has
We are given that Lois has x dollars more than Jim. We set up an equation:
L = x + J - - - - - (i)

We are next given that together they have a total of y dollars. We can set up our second
equation:
J + L = y - - - - - (ii)

Putting the value of L = x + J in Equation (ii) , we get

J+x+J=y
2J + x = y
2J = y – x
𝑦−𝑥
J= 2

ANSWER A
 Quadratic Equations

General Equation :
2
y = f(x) = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 ; where a ≠ 0. (a,b,c are constants)
2
a = coefficient of 𝑥
Roots : Values of x for which y becomes 0.

To find the roots ; put y = 0 .

2
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 ⇒
2
− 𝑏 + 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐
α = Root 1 = 2𝑎

2
− 𝑏 − 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐
β = Root 2 = 2𝑎

−𝑏
Sum of Roots = 𝑎
- - - - - -(1)
𝑐
Product of roots = 𝑎
- - - - - (2)

−𝑏
Max/Min value of the graph occurs at x = 2𝑎
(THINK WHY !!!)

2
Discriminant : D = 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 (Value under the square root)

2
If D = 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 , we get Real and Equal roots.(1 Root)
2
If D = 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 > 0 , we get Real and Distinct roots.(2 Roots)
2
If D = 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐 < 0 , we get Imaginary roots.(2 Roots). Imaginary roots always exist in pairs.
Example : If one root is 2 + 3i , then the other root will be 2 - 3i. ( i = − 1)
Nature of Graphs based on the values of a and D :
When a > 0 , the graph faces upwards and When a < 0 , the graph faces downwards.
1. When a > 0 , D = 0.

Graph touches the x-axis and will have only 1 root.

2. When a > 0 , D > 0.

Graph intersects the x-axis and will have 2 roots.

3. When a > 0 , D < 0.

Graph won’t intersect the x-axis and will have 2 imaginary roots.
4. When a < 0 , D = 0.

Graph touches the x-axis and will have only 1 root.

5. When a < 0 , D > 0.

Graph intersects the x-axis and will have 2 roots.

6. When a < 0 , D < 0.

Graph won’t intersect the x-axis and will have 2 imaginary roots.
**If the roots of the quadratic equation are α and β , then the factors will be (x - α) and
(x - β).Vice-versa is also true.**
Questions
2
1. What is the product of all the solutions of 𝑥 - 4x + 6 = 3 - |x - 1| ?
A. -8
B. -4
C. 2
D. 4
E. 8

SOLUTION :

Case 1 : Value inside the modulus is negative : x - 1 < 0 ⇒ x < 1

2
=> 𝑥 - 4x + 6 = 3 - - (x - 1)
2
=> 𝑥 - 4x + 6 = 3 + (x - 1)
2
⇒ 𝑥 - 5x + 4 = 0
=> (x - 4)(x - 1) = 0
⇒ x = 4 or x = 1 (both values not possible as x < 1)

Case 2 : Value inside the modulus is positive or 0 : x - 1 ≥ 0 ⇒ x ≥ 1

2
=> 𝑥 - 4x + 6 = 3 - (x - 1)
2
⇒ 𝑥 - 3x + 2 = 0
=> (x - 2)(x - 1) = 0
⇒ x = 2 ( Valid ) or x = 1 ( Valid )

Product of all possible roots = 2 x 1 = 2

ANSWER C
 2
2. Both roots of the quadratic equation 𝑥 - 63x + k = 0 are prime numbers. The number of
possible values of k are ?
A. 0
B. 1
C. 2
D. 3
E. 4 or more

SOLUTION :
Let the roots be R1 and R2.

R1 + R2 = 63 (Sum of the Roots) - - - - -(1)

R1 x R2 = k (Product of the Roots)

**Sum of 2 prime numbers which are the roots of this equation is odd , so one number has to
be odd and one has to be even. Only even prime number is 2 , so the other number will be 61.
(From Equation (1))

So k = R1 x R2 = 2 x 61 = 122 (From Equation (2))

Hence, k has only 1 possible value.

ANSWER B.
 13
3. A given quadratic equation ax2 – 52x + 24 = 0 has 6
as the sum of the roots. Find the product
of the roots.

A. 24
B. 1
C. 12
D. 245
E. 2

SOLUTION :

For the quadratic equation, ax2–52x+24 = 0 is of the form ax2+bx+c=0

𝑏
Sum of the roots = - 𝑎
13 −52
=> 6
=- 𝑎
13 52
=> 6
= 𝑎
=> a = 24

𝑐
Products of the roots = 𝑎
24 24
=> Products of the roots = 𝑎
= 24
=1

ANSWER B
4. While testing a new car engine, engineers calculated that its fuel efficiency increased with
speed up to a certain point and then decreased and that the efficiency was equal to 97 times
the speed minus the square of the speed. At what speed will the efficiency be maximum?

A. 32.33
B. 45.66
C. 62.5
D. 38.25
E. 48.5

SOLUTION :

Let's denote the speed as s. Let the efficiency be e.

The equation for efficiency would be
2
e = 97s - 𝑠
2
e = -𝑠 + 97s + 0
y = ax2 + bx + c
This is a quadratic equation of the form y = ax2 + bx + c where a = -1, b = 97, and c = 0.
The negative value of a indicates that the parabola faces downward.

𝑏 97
The maximum value of a quadratic equation occurs at x = - 2𝑎
= 2
= 48.5
Hence , at speed = 48.5 , efficiency will be maximum.
 Coordinate Geometry + Graphs Concepts

Coordinate Axis and Quadrants :

On the X axis the y coordinate of any point will be zero , so the equation of the X axis will be
y = 0.
On the Y axis the x coordinate of any point will be zero , so the equation of the Y axis will be
x = 0.

If 2 points (a, b) and (c, d) lie in the same quadrant, then a and c should have the same sign ,
and b and d should have the same sign.

Example : 1st Quadrant : (1,2) and (3,4) , 4th Quadrant : (1,-2) and (2,-3)
QUESTIONS

1. Which of the following points could lie in the same quadrant of the xy-coordinate plane as
the point (a, b), where ab ≠ 0 ?

A. (–b, –a)
B. (–a, –b)
C. (b, –a)
D. (a, –b)
E. (–b, a)

SOLUTION :

Take a = 1 and b = 2
Plugging the values in the option choices
A. (-b,-a) : (-2,-1)
B. (-a,-b) : (-1,-2)
C. (b,-a) : (2,-1)
D. (a,-b) : (1,-2)
E. (-b,a) : (-2,1)

ANSWER A
2. In the xy-plane, the points (c, d), (c, -d), and (-c, -d) are three vertices of a certain square. If c
< 0 and d > 0, which of the following points is in the same quadrant as the fourth vertex of the
square ?

A. (-5, -3)
B. (-5, 3)
C. (5, -3)
D. (3, -5)
E. (3, 5)

SOLUTION :
As the three vertices are (c, d), (c, -d), and (-c, -d) then the fourth vertex will be (-c, d)

As c < 0 and d > 0 and the fourth vertex is (-c,d).

(-c,d) is (positive, positive) will be in the first quadrant
Only (3,5) lies in the first quadrant.

ANSWER E
3. Points (x, -2) and (-3, y) are in quadrants IV and II, respectively. If xy does not equal 0, in
which quadrant is point (x, y) ?

SOLUTION :
(x, -2) is in IV quadrant so x coordinate will > 0
So x > 0.
(-3, y) is in II quadrant so y coordinate will > 0
So y > 0.

Since x, y > 0 , (x, y) lies in the 1st quadrant.

Slope of a line and Distance between two points :

If two points have coordinates (𝑥1, 𝑦1) and (𝑥2, 𝑦2) ,

𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑦 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑦2− 𝑦1
Slope = 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑥 𝑐𝑜𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒
= 𝑥2− 𝑥1
(1st way of representing)

2 2
Distance between 2 points (𝑥1, 𝑦1) and (𝑥2, 𝑦2) is given by d = (𝑥2 − 𝑥1) + (𝑦2 − 𝑦1)

2 2
So , Distance of the point (a, b) from the origin (0, 0) is 𝑎 + 𝑏

Assumptions :
Any point on the X axis can be taken as (a, 0)
Any point on the Y axis can be taken as (0, b)
QUESTIONS

1. Distance between two points A and B whose coordinates are (a, 2) and (4, 6) is 5 units. What
is the value of ‘a’?

A. 0
B. 1
C. 7
D. 1 or 7
E. Cannot be determined

SOLUTION :
The distance between the two points A (a,2) and B (4,6) is 5 units
Using the Distance formula:
2 2
AB = (𝑥2 − 𝑥1) + (𝑦2 − 𝑦1) = 5
2 2
=> (4 − 𝑎) + (6 − 2) = 5

=> 16 + a2 - 8a +16 = 25
=> a2- 8a + 7 = 0
=> (a-7)(a-1)=0
=> a = 1 or 7

ANSWER D
2. In a coordinate system, P = (2, 7) and Q = (2,-3). Which of the following could be the
coordinates of R if PQR is an isosceles triangle ?
(An isosceles triangle has two sides of equal length.)
I. (12,-3)
II. (-6, -9)
III. (-117, 2)

A. I only
B. I and II only
C. I and III only
D. II and III only
E. I, II, and III

SOLUTION:
2 2 2 2
PQ = (𝑥1 − 𝑥2) + (𝑦1 − 𝑦2) = (2 − 2) + (7 − (− 3)) = 10

I. R = (12,-3)
2 2
QR = (− 10) + (0) = 10
⇒ PQ = QR
⇒ PQR is an isosceles triangle

II. R = (-6, -9)

2 2
QR = (8) + (6) = 10
⇒ PQ = QR
⇒ PQR is an isosceles triangle

III. R = (-117, 2)
2 2
QR = (119) + (− 5)
2 2
PR = (119) + (− 5)
Hence, QR = PR
⇒ PQR is an isosceles triangle
⇒ I, II, and III

ANSWER E
X and Y intercepts :
When a graph cuts/touches the x-axis , the distance between the origin and the point of
cutting/touching is called the X - intercept.
In order to find the X-intercept of a line, we put Y = 0 in the equation of the line as the
Y-coordinate will be 0 at the point of intersection.

When a graph cuts/touches the y-axis , the distance between the origin and the point of
cutting/touching is called the Y - intercept.
In order to find the Y-intercept of a line, we put X = 0 in the equation of the line as the
X-coordinate will be 0 at the point of intersection.
SECTION FORMULA :
If a point R(x,y) divides the line segment PQ (coordinates of P and Q : (𝑥1, 𝑦1) and (𝑥2 , 𝑦2) ) in
the ratio m : n , then

Coordinates of point R(x,y)

𝑚𝑥2 + 𝑛𝑥1
x= 𝑚+𝑛

𝑚𝑦2 + 𝑛𝑦1
y= 𝑚+𝑛

Slopes and Quadrants :

𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
Slope = − 𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
(2nd way of representing)

If the line has equation ax + by = c , then

𝑐
y-int : a(0) + b(y-int) = c => y-int = 𝑏
𝑐
x-int : a(x-int) + b(0) = c => x-int = 𝑎
𝑦 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 𝑎
Slope would be = − 𝑥 − 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
= − 𝑏
Example 1 :

2x + 3y = 10
x-int = 5
10
y-int = 3
10
3 2
Slope = − 5
=− 3

Example 2 :

3x + 4y = 12

x-int = 4
y-int = 3
3
Slope = − 4

Example 3 : In the coordinate plane, the y-intercept of the line k is equal to twice its slope. The
y-intercept is not 0. What is the x-intercept of the line k ?

A. −2
B. −1
C. 0
D. 1
E. 2
SOLUTION:
Let the slope of the line be a
So, the y-intercept will be 2a
𝑦−𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
Slope of the line is given by - 𝑥−𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
2𝑎
a= - 𝑥−𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡

x-intercept= -2

ANSWER A

For a positive sloped line , the angle made by the x-axis and the line(anti-clock wise sense)
should be between 0 and 90 degrees.
For a negatively sloped line , the angle made by the x-axis and the line(anti-clock wise sense)
should be between 90 and 180 degrees.

When θ = 0 , the line will be parallel to the x-axis.

When θ = 90 , the line will be perpendicular to the x-axis.

POINTS TO REMEMBER :

If the slope of a line is negative, the line WILL definitely intersect quadrants II and IV.

(If the line is not passing through the origin)X and Y intercepts of the line with negative slope
have the same sign. Therefore if X and Y intercepts are positive, the line intersects quadrant I ; if
negative, quadrant III.
If the slope of the line is positive, the line WILL definitely intersect quadrants I and III.

(If the line is not passing through the origin)Y and X intercepts of the line with positive slope
have opposite signs. Therefore if X intercept is negative, line intersects the quadrant II , if
positive quadrant IV.
Every line (except the one crossing origin OR parallel to X or Y axis OR X and Y axis themselves)
crosses three quadrants.

Only the line which crosses origin (0,0) OR is parallel to either axis crosses only two quadrants.

Lines passing through two quadrants:

Lines passing through three quadrants :

If a line is horizontal , it has a slope of 0. It is parallel to the X-axis and crosses quadrant I and II if
the Y intercept is positive OR quadrants III and IV, if the Y intercept is negative.
Equation of such a line is y = b, where b is y-intercept.

If a line is vertical, the slope is not defined, the line is parallel to Y-axis and crosses quadrant I
and IV, if the X intercept is positive and quadrant II and III, if the X intercept is negative.
Equation of such a line is x = a, where a is x-intercept.

For a line that crosses two points (𝑥1, 𝑦1) and (𝑥2, 𝑦2),
𝑦2 − 𝑦1
Slope = 𝑚 = 𝑥2 − 𝑥1

If the slope is 1 the angle formed by the line with the x- axis is 45 degrees.
(𝑚 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛θ)
Equation of line :
Given a point and slope, the equation of a line can be found. The equation of a straight line that
passes through a point (𝑥1, 𝑦1) with a slope m is :

y - 𝑦1= m (x - 𝑥1)

Equation of x axis: y = 0
Equation of y axis: x = 0
Equation of line parallel to x axis: y = k (k is a constant)
Equation of line parallel to y axis: x = k (k is a constant)

Equation of lines in different forms :

y = mx + c ; where m is the Slope and c is a constant.

− 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑥
ax + by + c = 0 ; where Slope = 𝑐𝑜𝑒𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑦

If slope is m and one point on the line (𝑥1, 𝑦1) is known :

(y - 𝑦1) = m(x - 𝑥1)

If 2 points are known on the line (𝑥1, 𝑦1) and (𝑥2, 𝑦2)
𝑦2 − 𝑦1
(y - 𝑦1)= 𝑥2 − 𝑥1
(x - 𝑥1)

If x and y intercepts are a and b respectively, then equation of line :

𝑥 𝑦
𝑎
+ 𝑏
= 1 (From this equation , graph can be easily drawn)

Example : 40x - 120y = 240 (Divide the equation by 240)

𝑥 𝑦
=> 6
+ −2
= 1
Positive and Negative Slopes:
Whether a line has a positive or negative slope is easy to tell just by looking at a graph of the
line.
If the line slopes downhill as you trace it from left to right, the slope is negative.
Downhill = negative.

If the line slopes uphill as you trace it from left to right, the slope is positive.
Uphill = positive.

For example :

For the first case, Slope of m is greater than Slope of l.

For the second case, Slope of c is greater than Slope of d.

NOTE :
When we compare lines having negative slopes , whichever line that is to the left will have a
greater slope.
When we compare lines having positive slopes , whichever line that is to the left will have a
greater slope.
If two lines are parallel , then their slopes are equal (𝑚1 = 𝑚2).

If two lines do not intersect, they are parallel.

If two lines are perpendicular to each other, the product of their slopes is -1.
(𝑚1 × 𝑚2 =-1).

The point of intersection of two lines (x, y) is obtained by simultaneously solving both the
equations.

Example 1 : Arrange the slopes in ascending order.

SOLUTION :
We know that Slope of lines a,b is positive and Slope of lines c,d is negative.
So, Slope of lines a,b > Slope of lines c,d
=> We can now compare Slope of lines a,b and Slope of lines c,d separately .
Slope of a > Slope of b (a is to the left of b)
Slope of c > Slope of d (c is to the left of d)
Slope : a > b > c > d
Example 2 : In the figure given, which line has the greater slope AB or AC?

SOLUTION :
These lines have positive slopes. Line AB is to the left of Line AC.
So, Slope (AB) > Slope (AC)

Example 3 : Which line has a greater slope L1 or L2?

SOLUTION :
These lines have negative slopes.Line l1 is to the left of l2.
Slope (l1) > Slope (l2)
Example 4 : The y intercept of a line L is 4. If the slope of L is negative, which of the following
could be the x intercept of L?
I. -1
II. 0
III. 6

SOLUTION :
Since line has positive y intercept and slope is negative , here are some possibilities :

From Figure we can say that x intercept has to be positive.

So, 6 could be the x intercept of L.
QUESTIONS

1. In the coordinate plane, line k passes through the origin and has slope 2. If points (3,y) and
(x,4) are on line k, then x + y =

A. 3.5
B. 7
C. 8
D. 10
E. 14

SOLUTION:

The line has a slope 2

It passes through the origin i.e., (0,0)
(𝑦2−𝑦1)
Slope = (𝑥2−𝑥1)

For points (0,0) and (3,y) (As they are on the same line , Slope will be same)
(𝑦−0)
(3−0)
=2
𝑦
3
=2
y=6

For points (0,0) and (x,4) (As they are on the same line , Slope will be same)
(4−0)
(𝑥−0)
=2
4
𝑥
=2
x=2

So, x + y= 6 + 2 = 8

ANSWER C
2.

If the line passes through the origin, what is the value of k ?

A. -8
B. -12.5
C. -18
D. -24.5
E. -28

SOLUTION :

The line passes through the origin i.e., it passes through (0,0)
Let us find the slope of the line using the points (0,0) and (-4,7)
(𝑦2−𝑦1) (7−0) 7
Slope= (𝑥2−𝑥1)
= (−4−0)
=− 4
….(i)
(𝑘−0) 𝑘
Also for the points (0,0) and (14,k), Slope= (14−0)
= 14
….(ii)
7 𝑘
From (i) and (ii), − 4
= 14
49
k= - 2
= -24.5

ANSWER D
3. Line l is defined by the equation y – 5x = 4 and line w is defined by the equation 10y + 2x + 20
= 0. If line k does not intersect line l, what is the degree measure of the angle formed by line k
and line w? (Assume that all lines lie in one coordinate plane i.e xy plane)

A. 0
B. 30
C. 60
D. 90
E. It cannot be determined from the information given

SOLUTION :

The equation of line l is y = 5x + 4

Slope of the line is 5
The equation of line w is 10y+2x+20=0
1
or, y = − 5
x-2
1
Slope of line w = − 5
As Line l and Line k do not intersect each other, it implies that they are parallel.
So, the slope of line k= 5

1
The product of slopes of line k and line w is − 5
×5= -1

So, lines k and w are perpendicular to each other.

ANSWER D
4. In an XY coordinate plane, the line x = 5 is a perpendicular bisector of the line segment AB. If
the coordinates of point A are (-1, 2), then what are the coordinates of point B?

A. (-1, 8)
B. (9, 2)
C. (5, 2)
D. (11, 2)
E. (11, 8)

SOLUTION :

As seen in the figure, point C is at a distance 6 units from point A. As x = 5 is a perpendicular

bisector , C is the midpoint of AB. So, point B is at a distance of 6 units from point C. As AB is
parallel to the x-axis , point B will have 2 as the y-coordinate. As point B is at a distance of 6
units from point C , 11 will be the x-coordinate.
So, coordinates of point B will be (11,2).
5.

The graph of which of the following equations is a straight line that is parallel to line l in the
figure above ?

A. 3y − 2x = 0
B. 3y + 2x = 0
C. 3y + 2x = 6
D. 2y − 3x = 6
E. 2y + 3x = −6

SOLUTION :
Parallel lines have the same slope
Let us find the slope of the above line
𝑦−𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 2 2
Slope = - 𝑥−𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
=- (−3)
= 3
Now, the slope of the line 3y - 2x = 0
3y = 2x
2
y= 3
x

ANSWER A
6. Line Z passes above points (5, 5) and (25, 15) and below point (20, 15). Which of the following
could be the slope of Line Z ?

1
A. 4
3
B. 8
5
C. 8
3
D. 4
7
E. 8

SOLUTION :

Slope of line Z should lie between the slopes of the other two lines. How did we reach this
conclusion ?
=> Line Z passes above points (5, 5) and (25, 15) and below point (20, 15).

So, Slope of Line Z will be greater than the Slope of Line l1 but less than the Slope of Line l2.

15−5 15−5
25−5
< Slope of line Z < 20−5
10 10
20
< Slope of line Z < 15
1 2
2
< Slope of line Z < 3
Only C lies in the given range.

ANSWER C
7. Which of the following could be the equation of a line parallel to the line 3x + 2y = 8 ?

2
A. y = 3
x +7
−2
B. y = 3
x +7
3
C. y = 2
x + 7
−3
D. y = 2
x+7
3
E. y = 2
x–7

SOLUTION :

Parallel lines have same slope

So, 𝑚1= 𝑚2
Representing the equation 3x + 2y = 8 in y = mx+c form

−3
y=( 2
)x + 4
−3
Slope of the line, m = 2

−3
From the answer choices y= 2
x + 7 has the same slope.

ANSWER D
8. What is the equation of a line whose intercepts are twice of the line 3x – 2y – 12 = 0 ?

A. 3x – 2y = 24
B. 3x – 4y = 12
C. 3x – 3y = 24
D. 2x – 3y = 18
E. 2x – y = 12

SOLUTION :
3x - 2y = 12
Representing the line in the intercept form
𝑥 𝑦
4
+ (−6)
=1
So, the x intercept is 4 and the y intercept is (-6)
Representing the line graphically

We need the equation of the line having the intercepts twice that of the above line
The x intercept should be 8 and the y-intercept should be -12

𝑥 𝑦
8
+ (−12)
=1
−12x + 8y = −96
3x – 2y = 24

ANSWER A
9.

If the figure above is drawn to scale, which of the following could be the equation of line l ?

A. y = 4x + 4
B. y = 4x − 4
C. y = x − 6
1
D. y = x + 2
E. y = −x − 3

SOLUTION :
𝑦−𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
Slope of the line is given by - 𝑥−𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡
For the given line, the x-intercept is positive and the y-intercept is negative
So, the Slope of the line will be positive.
Let us look at the answer choices now
A and D can be Eliminated as y-intercept should be negative.
E has a negative slope. Eliminate it.
Out of B and C, C is most likely to be the answer considering the slope of line L.
Option B gives a way larger value of slope than it should be.

ANSWER C
10. Line P has a positive slope and a positive y-intercept. Line Q also has a positive slope and a
positive y- intercept. The two slopes and the two y-intercepts are four different numbers, none
equal. Lines P & Q have a single intersection point - what is the full set of possible quadrants in
which the intersection point could be ?

A. I only
B. I & III only
C. I & II only
D. I & II & III only
E. all four quadrants possible

SOLUTION :
Possibilities :

2nd quadrant 3rd quadrant 1st quadrant

ANSWER D
Parabola Basics(Quadratic) :

2
General equation for quadratic : y = a𝑥 + bx + c, where a ≠ 0
2
𝑥1 and 𝑥2 are the roots of the equation because y = a𝑥 + bx + c is intersecting the x axis at
those points. This means that y = 0 for both points 𝑥1 and 𝑥2.

⇒y=0
2
⇒ a𝑥 + bx + c = 0
2
−𝑏 ± 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐
⇒ 𝑥1, 𝑥2 = 2𝑎

(Roots)
 Quadratic Number of real roots

0 (2 imaginary roots)

2
Discriminant : D = 𝑏 − 4𝑎𝑐
D > 0 ⇒ Two real distinct roots
D = 0 ⇒ One real and equal root
D < 0 ⇒ Two imaginary roots (unreal roots) ⇒ conjugate pair of roots

−𝑏
Sum of roots : 𝑥1+ 𝑥2 = 𝑎
𝑐
Products of roots : 𝑥1× 𝑥2 = 𝑎
 2
If we plot y = a𝑥 + bx + c, we get the equation of a parabola.
2
For x-axis intersection , y = 0 , so a𝑥 + bx + c = 0
2
If 𝑏 > 4ac, the parabola will cut the x axis in 2 distinct points (distinct real roots)
2
If 𝑏 = 4ac, the parabola will touch the x axis at one point (equal roots)
2
If 𝑏 < 4ac, the parabola will not cut the x axis (imaginary roots)

2
If a and c are positive,then we have four possibilities for y = a𝑥 + c

2
y = a𝑥 + c Opens upwards, vertex above x axis.

2
y = a𝑥 - c Opens upwards, vertex below x axis.

2
y = -a𝑥 + c Opens downwards, vertex above x axis.
 2
y = -a𝑥 - c Opens downwards, vertex below x axis.

2 2
Graph the curve y = -3𝑥 + 3 Graph the curve y = -3(𝑥 + 2) + 4

Some basic graphs :

1. y = x
2. y = |x|

2
3. y = 𝑥

3
4. y = 𝑥
 1
5. y = 𝑥

1
6. y = 2
𝑥

7. y = 𝑥
 3
8. y = 𝑥

2 2 2
NOTE : Equation of a circle with center (h,k) is given by (𝑥 − ℎ) + (𝑦 − 𝑘) = 𝑟 , where r is
the radius of the circle.
QUESTIONS

1. Which of the following is the graph of the equation y = −|−x| ?

SOLUTION :

y = -|-x|
=> When x = 1 , y = -1
and
=> When x = -1 , y = -1
Only Graph C satisfies both the possible solutions.

ANSWER C
2. On the coordinate plane, each point lying on a circle has its x and y coordinates greater than
or equal to zero. If the centre of the circle lies at (3,4), what is the maximum possible area of the
2
circle ? (Area of Circle = π𝑟 , where r is the radius)

A. 6π
B. 8π
C. 9π
D. 12π
E. 16π

SOLUTION :
The centre of the circle is at (3,4).

Maximum Area of the circle will be when the radius is equal to 3. Radius can’t be 4.
(THINK WHY !!)

2
Hence , Max Area = π (3 ) = 9π

ANSWER C
3. In the rectangular coordinate system, points (4, 0) and (– 4, 0) both lie on circle C. What is the
maximum possible value of the radius of C ?

A. 2
B. 4
C. 8
D. 16
E. There is no finite maximum value

SOLUTION :

It takes 3 distinct points to define a circle.

Only 2 are given here. The two points define a chord on circle C

Without additional information, the radius of the circle can be any value. There is no specified
upper limit for the radius based on the given information.

ANSWER E
4.

The figure below shows a parabola in the xy-plane. Which of the following equations does the
graph best represent ?

A. y = –x2 + 6x – 9
B. y = x2 – 2x + 6
2 2
C. y = 3
x – 4x + 6
D. y = –x2 + x – 3
E. y = x2 + 3x + 9

SOLUTION :
For the given parabola a > 0 and it touches the x-axis at (3,0)
So, it has real and equal roots
i.e., D = 0
From the given answer choices, Only C matches
2 2
y= 3
x – 4x + 6
D = b2 - 4ac
2
D = (-4)2- 4× 3 ×6=0

ANSWER C
5.

2
The figure shows the graph of y = a − 𝑥 for some constant a. If the square ABCD intersects the
graph at points A and B and the area of the square is 16 , what is the value of a ?

A. 2
B. 4
C. 6
D. 8
E. 10

SOLUTION :
The area of the square is 16
So, the side of the square will be 4.
As the graph is symmetric around the y-axis , OC = OD = 2. So, point B will have 2 as the
x-coordinate and 4 as the y-coordinate. The parabola also passes through the same point.
Hence, we can put x = 2 and y = 4 in the equation to find the value of a.

y = a - x2
Now, x = 2, y = 4
4 = a-(2)2
a=8

ANSWER D
6. What is the area enclosed of the region enclosed by y = |x – 1| + 2, x = 1, x-axis and y-axis ? (
1
Area of Trapezium = 2
×(Sum of parallel sides)×height )

A. 2.5
B. 5
C. 7
D. 9
E. 10

SOLUTION :

1 5
Area = 2
×(2+3)×1 = 2
= 2.5

ANSWER A
7.

In the figure , QRST is a square. If the shaded region is bounded by arcs of circles with centres at
Q, R, S, and T, then what is the area of the shaded region ?
2
(Area of Circle = π𝑟 , where r is the radius)

A. 9
B. 36
C. 36 – 9π
D. 36 – π
E. 9 – 3π

SOLUTION :
Area of the shaded region = Area of square QRST - Area of 4 quarters

Area of square QRST = 6×6 = 36

2
3
Area of 4 quadrant = 4×π × 4
= 9π

Thus area of shaded region = 36−9π

ANSWER C
8.

The graphs of f(x)= x3 − x and g(x)= mx + n are represented in the figure given. If m and n are
constants, what is the value of mn ?
A. -4
B. -2
C. 2
D. 4
E. 6

SOLUTION :
In order to find the roots of f(x) = y = x3 − x , we put y = 0.
2
This gives x(𝑥 -1) = 0 => x = 0(Origin) , 1 , -1

As we can see, g(x) also passes through x = -1 . So , g(x) = 0 at x = -1.

=> g(x) = mx + n
=> 0 = -m + n
=> m = n.
At x = 2 , f(x)= x3 − x = 23 − 2 = 6.
Line g(x) also passes through the same point from where f(x) is passing through in the 1st
quadrant. The x-coordinate of the point is 2 and the y-coordinate is 6.

=> g(x) = mx + n
=> g(2) = 2m + n
=> 6 = 3m
=> m = n = 2.
So, mn = 4

ANSWER D
9.

Which of the following could be the equation of the graph in the xy-plane shown above ?

A. y = x2 + x − 60
B. y = x2 + x − 20
C. y = x2 + 3x − 60
D. y = 3x2 + x − 60
E. y = 3x2+ 3x− 60

SOLUTION :
As we can see in the graph , the roots are 4 and -5.
Sum of the roots = 4 + (-5) = -1
Product of the roots = 4×(-5) = -20
At x = 0 , the y value is -60.

Choice E satisfies the requirements.

ANSWER E
MISCELLANEOUS :

4.2×(1590)
1. Which of the following is closest to 15.7

A. 20
B. 40
C. 60
D. 80
E. 100

SOLUTION :
Let us use approximation to calculate the value of the expression
4.2≈4
1590≈1600
15.7≈16
4(1600)
So, 16
= 400 = 20

ANSWER A

2. Which of the following is the closest approximation to [√73 × √239] ÷ [√7.2 + √15.7] ?
A. 10
B. 15
C. 20
D. 25
E. 30

SOLUTION :
√73 is about 8.5.
√239 is about 15.5.
√7.2 is about 3.
√15.7 is about 4.
Numerator = 15.5 x 8.5 = 131.75≈130
Denominator ≈ 3 + 4 = 7
130
Thus , 7
= 18.57 ≈ 20
ANSWER C
3. In the below addition A, B, C, D, E, F, and G represent the digits 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. If each
variable has a different value, and E ≠ 0, then G equals

A. 2
B. 3
C. 4
D. 5
E. 6

SOLUTION :
E can only be 1 as there are No two 2-digit numbers that can give us a sum of 200 or more. The
sum must be in the 100 - 199 range only.

The largest digits are 5 and 6 which add to give 11. With a carryover, the sum can be 12 to give a
maximum value of 2 to F. But no two of the rest of the numbers (0, 2, 3, 4) can be added to give
us a carryover. So F cannot be 2 and it cannot be 1 because E is 1. So F must be 0.
A and C can be 6 and 4 to give a sum of 10 leaving us with 2, 3, and 5 - perfect. B and D must be
2 and 3 and G must be 5.

ANSWER D
4. If the symbols Δ and ◊ each represent digits in the following subtraction operation, what is
the value of ◊ ?

Δ◊◊
-ΔΔ
667

A. 3
B. 4
C. 5
D. 8
E. 9

SOLUTION :
We need to first think of values for Δ. As the result is in the 600's, Δ cannot be less than 6.

If Δ is 6, then the range will be between 600 to 699. But if we subtract 66, will the result be 667
? No. So we need to think of another value of Δ.

If Δ is 7, then the range of Δ ◊ ◊ will be between 700 and 799. And if we subtract ΔΔ(77) Some
number in the 700's will give 667. From this value, we can get the value of ◊.

But instead of plugging in the values to find the ◊. We can add 667 and 77 to get Δ ◊ ◊.

This will give us 667 + 77 = 744. So ◊ = 4

ANSWER B
 PnC , Probability Concepts

Permutation and Combination :

Permutation : Selection + Arrangement ⇒ n𝑃𝑟

Combination : Selection ⇒ 𝑛𝐶𝑟

Fundamental Principle of Counting :

Rule of AND:
Example. : There is a person standing at A and he has to go to C by crossing B. There are 3 ways
from A → B and 4 ways from B → C.
In how many ways can this person go to A → C via B ?

A → C = (A → B) AND (B → C) ⇒ 3 × 4 = 12 ways.
AND Stands for multiplication.

Rule of OR:
Example. : There is a person standing at B and he has to move out of B. There are 3 ways from B
→ A and 4 ways from B → C.
In how many ways can this person move out of B ?

Move out of B = (B → A) OR (B → C) ⇒ 3 + 4 = 7 ways.

OR Stands for addition.
Forming Numbers :
1. How many 2-digit numbers are there ?
SOLUTION :
_ _ =>
Tens place can be filled in 9 ways (0 can’t be included)
Units place can be filled in 10 ways
Tens place needs to be filled AND Units place needs to be filled.
=> 9 x 10 = 90

2. How many 2-digit numbers with distinct digits are there ?(Eg: 12,23,45)
SOLUTION :
_ _ =>
Tens place can be filled in 9 ways (0 can’t be included)
Units place can be filled in 9 ways (as the digit selected for tens place can’t be used but 0 can be
used here)
Tens place needs to be filled AND Units place needs to be filled.
=> 9 x 9 = 81

3. Use digits 1,2,3,4 to make 4-digit numbers.

SOLUTION :
4
a. With repetition = 4 x 4 x 4 x 4 = 4
b. Without repetition = 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 = 4!

4. Using digits 0,1,2,3,4 form a 4-digit number.

SOLUTION :
a. With repetition
_ _ _ _ => Thousands place can be filled in 4 ways. Rest of the places will have no restrictions.
=> 4 x 5 x 5 x 5 = 500

b. Without repetition
_ _ _ _ =>
Thousands place can be filled in 4 ways
Hundreds place can be filled in 4 ways (as 0 can be used here)
Tens place can be filled in 3 ways (as we are left with only 3 digits)
Units place can be filled in 2 ways
=> 4 x 4 x 3 x 2 = 96
5. How many numbers greater than a million can be formed with the digits 2, 3, 0, 3, 4, 2, 3 ?

SOLUTION :

Case 1 : Number starts with 2

6!
2 _ _ _ _ _ _ -> the 6 spaces contain three 3’s , 0 , 4 , 2 -> 3!

Case 2 : Number starts with 3

6!
3 _ _ _ _ _ _ -> the 6 spaces contain 2 3’s , 0 , 4 , 2 2’s -> 2! 2!

Case 3 : Number starts with 4

6!
4 _ _ _ _ _ _ -> the 6 spaces contain 3 3’s , 0 , 2 2’s -> 2! 3!

6! 6! 6!
Total Numbers = 3!
+ 2! 2!
+ 2! 3!
= 360
Arranging People in a row :
In how many ways can we arrange

a. 7 people in 4 chairs

Think with respect to chairs.

1st chair will have 7 options.

2nd chair will have 6 options.
3rd chair will have 5 options.
4th chair will have 4 options.

=> 7 x 6 x 5 x 4

b. 4 people in 4 chairs

Think with respect to chairs/people.

1st chair will have 4 options.

2nd chair will have 3 options.
3rd chair will have 2 options.
4th chair will have 1 options.

=> 4 x 3 x 2 x 1

c. 4 people in 7 chairs.

Think with respect to people.

1st person will have 7 options.

2nd person will have 6 options.
3rd person will have 5 options.
4th person will have 4 options.
=> 7 x 6 x 5 x 4
We think with respect to that entity which can cover all the cases.
Concept of factorial :
0! = 1
1! = 1
2! = 2 x 1 = 2
3! = 3 x 2 x 1 = 6
4! = 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 = 4 x 3! = 24
n! = n x (n - 1)!

Arrange 4 Boys and 4 Girls in a row such that

a. There is no restriction
SOLUTION :
8 x 7. . . x 2 x 1 = 8!

b. All girls are together

SOLUTION :
Consider all the girls as 1 unit. There are 4 boys. So , these 5 persons will be arranged in 5!
Ways. Now, these 4 girls can be arranged among themselves in 4!.
=> 5! X 4!

c. No 2 girls are together.

SOLUTION :
If No 2 girls are together , then we need to arrange the boys first and then arrange the girls in
the spaces. There are 5 spaces in which the girls can sit. This case is not the same as Boys and
Girls sitting alternately. (WHY ??? GBGBGBBG is a possible case )

_ B _ B _ B _ B _

⇒ Boys can arrange themselves in 4! ways.

Remaining spaces = 5
1st girl has 5 options.
2nd girl has 4 options.
3rd girl has 3 options.
4th girl has 2 options.

So, 4 girls can be arranged in 5 places in 5! ways

⇒ No. of ways = 4! x 5!
Arranging Alphabets :

a. Number of 5-letter words that can be made with the letters of the word "RUCHI".
SOLUTION :
=> 5 x 4 x 3 x 2 x 1 = 5!

b. Number of 4-letter words that can be made with the letters of the word "AMAN".
SOLUTION :
4!
=> 2!
( as ‘A’ occurs twice , we divide by 2! )

c. Number of 11-letter words that can be made with the letters of the word "ENGINEERING".
SOLUTION :
=>
E→3
N→3
G→2
I →2
R→1

11!
Number of 11-letter words = 3! 3! 2! 2!
Arranging People in circle :
n people in a circle can be arranged in (n-1)! ways.

Arrange 4 boys and 4 girls on a circular table such that no 2 girls are together.
=> First we need to arrange the boys among themselves and then arrange the girls in the 4
spaces present.

=> Boys can be arranged in 3! ways and girls can be arranged in 4! ways.
Total ways = 3! x 4!
Arrangement vs Selection :

Arrangement Selection

Order matters Order doesn’t matter

Arrangement includes selection.

Example : Example :
Make a committee of 2 from 3 members Make a committee of 2 from 3-members
such that one is a president and the other
is a vice president.

=> Only 3 cases (AB , BC , AC). => Only 3 cases (AB , BC , AC)
Now one is a president and the other is a => 3C2
vice president. Say we have AB as our
committee. There are 2 ways of selecting a
president and 1 way of selecting a vice
president.

=> 3C2 × 2 × 1
=> 3C2 × 2! => 3C2

=> nPr = nCr × r! => nCr

Arranging r things out of n distinct things. Selecting r things out of n distinct things.

SOME IMPORTANT RELATIONS :

𝑛!
𝑛𝑃𝑟 = (𝑛 − 𝑟)!

𝑛!
𝑛𝐶𝑟 = 𝑟! (𝑛 − 𝑟)!

𝑛𝐶𝑟 = 𝑛𝐶𝑛 − 𝑟

𝑛𝑃𝑟 = 𝑛𝐶𝑟 × r!
Forming Committees : (Only Selection)

1. In how many ways can we create a committee of 7 from 8 women and 9 men ?
SOLUTION :
=> Total = 8 + 9 = 17
=> Number of ways = 17𝐶7

2. In how many ways can we create a committee of 7 from 8 women and 9 men such that at
least 1 is a woman ?
SOLUTION :
=> Total = 8 + 9 = 17
=> Total Cases = (0 woman 7 men) + (1 woman 6 men) + . . . . . . .. . + (7 woman 0 men)
=> Total Cases = (0 woman 7 men) + at least 1 woman
=> at least 1 woman = Total - (no women selected) = 17𝐶7 − 9𝐶7
No. of ways of selecting 'r' objects out of 'n' objects when

Case 1 : n is distinct

𝑛𝐶0 (𝑛𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑) + 𝑛𝐶1 (1 𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑) + 𝑛𝐶2 (2 𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑)................... + 𝑛𝐶𝑛 (𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑)
𝑛
=> 2 ways

Case 2 : n is identical

=> (none selected) + (1 selected) + (2 selected) +…. . . . . . + (n selected)

=> 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 . . . . . . . . . . .. . + 1 => n + 1 ways

1. A room has 5 identical tube-lights as shown.Find the number of ways in which the room can
be lit ? (Question on Case 1)

SOLUTION :
Total cases = none is on + 1 light on + 2 lights on + 3 lights on + 4 lights on + 5 lights on
5
=> 2 = 5𝐶0 + at least 1 on
5
=> at least 1 on = 2 - 5𝐶0 = 32 - 1 = 31 ways.
2. In a shop, there are 4 apples, 5 oranges, and 6 mangoes. Find the number of ways in which I
can buy (identical fruits in each category)

a. At Least 1 fruit of each kind

SOLUTION :
Number of ways to buy at least 1 apple = 5(total) - 1(none selected) = 4
Number of ways to buy at least 1 orange = 6(total) - 1(none selected) = 5
Number of ways to buy at least 1 mango = 7(total) - 1(none selected) = 6

At Least 1 fruit of each kind

=> At Least 1 apple x At Least 1 orange x At Least 1 mango
=> 4 x 5 x 6 = 120

b. At Least 1 fruit
SOLUTION :
Total cases for buying fruits = (4 + 1) x (5 + 1) x (6 + 1) = 5 x 6 x 7 = 210
We can subtract the case where there are 0 apples , 0 oranges and 0 mangoes.

Number of ways = Total - 1 = 210 - 1 = 209 ways.

Partition Method :
Example 1 : How many non- negative integer solutions exist for the equation a + b + c = 8 ?
SOLUTION :
=> Consider 8 as 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 (Identical things distributed among 3 persons)
In order to distribute among 3 persons , we need 2 partitions. (PP)
So we have 11111111 PP
A few cases :
(111)P(11)P(111) -> This means a = 3 , b = 2 , c = 3
(11111)PP(111) -> This means a = 5 , b = 0 , c = 3

How many such cases ?

10!
We have 8 1’s and 2 P’s => 2! 8!
=> 10C2
This is similar to saying (n + r - 1)C(r-1) ; where n = 8 , r = 3.
Rather than using the formula , understand what’s happening here !

Example 2 : How many positive integer solutions exist for the equation a + b + c = 8 ?
SOLUTION :
=> Consider 8 as 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 (Identical things distributed among 3 persons)
Now a = 8, b = 0 , c = 0 and a = 0 , b = 7 , c = 1 are unacceptable cases as a,b,c > 0.

So, we provide 1 to a,b,c each so that the positive integer solution condition is satisfied.Then we
use the same partition method as we used in the above question.

Now the equation becomes a’ + b’ + c’ = 5 , where a = a’ + 1 , b = b’ + 1 , c = c’ + 1

=> So we have 5 1’s. In order to distribute among 3 persons , we need 2 partitions.

So we have 11111 PP
How many such cases ?
7!
We have 5 1’s and 2 P’s => 2! 5!
=> 7C2
This is similar to saying (n - 1)C(r-1) ; where n = 8 , r = 3.
Rather than using the formula , understand what’s happening here !
QUESTIONS

1. There are 3 roads from A to B and 4 roads from B to C. If Allison drives from A to C and back,
passes through B in both directions, and does not travel any road twice, how many different
routes are possible for the round trip?

A. 12
B. 18
C. 24
D. 48
E. 72

SOLUTION:
Let's calculate the route from A to C:

From A to B, Allison can choose one of the three available roads

Number of ways available = 3

From B to C, Allison can choose one of the four available roads

Number of ways available = 4

Now from C to A:

From C to B, Allison can choose one of the three available roads (she has already travelled
through one road while travelling from B to C)
Number of ways available = 3

From B to A, Allison can choose one of the two available roads (she has already travelled
through one road while travelling from A to B)
Number of ways available = 2

Total number of different routes that are possible for the round trip:
=3×4×3×2
= 12 × 6
= 72

ANSWER E
2.

The map above shows the trails through a wilderness area. If travel is in the direction of the
arrows, how many routes along the marked trails are possible from point A to point B ?

A. 11
B. 18
C. 54
D. 108
E. 432

SOLUTION :
While travelling from point A to B
Case 1: Through Top path:

The number of ways:

=1 ×3× 3× 3× 1
= 27

Case 2: Through Bottom path:

The number of ways:

=1 ×3× 3× 3× 1
= 27

Hence, Total paths = 27 + 27 = 54

ANSWER C
3. How many integers, greater than 999 but not greater than 4000, can be formed with the
digits 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, if repetition of digits is allowed?

A. 499
B. 500
C. 375
D. 376
E. 501

SOLUTION :
Numbers greater than 999 but not greater than 4000 are 4-digit numbers

From 1000 to 3999,

1st digit: We have three options for the first digit (1,2,3),

2nd digit: Five options for each of the 2nd 3rd and 4th digits (0-4)

So the total integers from 1000 to 3999 = 3 × 5 × 5 × 5 = 375

***Notice that 4000 is also within the defined range, so the total number of integers is
375 + 1 = 376

ANSWER D
4. In how many ways can a teacher in a kindergarten school arrange a group of 6 children
(Susan, Karen, lei, Tim, joy and Zen) on 6 identical chairs in a straight line so that Susan is on the
left of Tim?

A. 720
B. 360
C. 240
D. 120
E. 60

SOLUTION :
Total ways in which 6 children can be arranged on 6 chairs = 6! = 720

The cases follow a symmetric pattern so in half cases, Susan will be to the left of Tim and in the
other half of the cases, Tim will be to the left of Susan.

1
Therefore, cases in which Susan is on the left of Tim = ( 2 ) of 720 = 360

ANSWER B
5. Find the number of ways in which the letters of the word “machine” can be arranged such
that the vowels may occupy only odd positions ?

A. 288
B. 576
C. 5040
D. 48
E. None of these

SOLUTION :
Total words = 7
Total vowels = 3(A, I, and E)

Thus, there are 4 odd places.

__ E __ E __ E __

3 vowels can be arranged in 4 odd places in the following way:

For 1st vowel available places = 4
For 2nd vowel available places = 3
For 3rd vowel available places = 2

Therefore total ways = 4 × 3 × 2 = 24

In the remaining 4 places, 4 consonants can be arranged in 4! ways = 24 ways

Thus, total ways = 24 × 24 = 576

ANSWER B
6. In how many ways can 7 French and 7 Ukrainians sit around a circular table such that no 2
Ukrainians sit together ?

A. 7!*7!
B. 5!*5!
C. 5!*7!
D. 2!*7!
E. 7!*6!

SOLUTION :

First, arrange the 7 French in a circular arrangement and then arrange the others as if they were
sitting in a row

Ways of arranging 7 French in a circle: (7−1)! = 6!

Ways of placing the other group in the spaces between = 7!

Total number of ways 6! × 7!

ANSWER E

7. A committee of three people is to be chosen from four teams of two. What is the number of
different committees that can be chosen if no two people from the same team can be selected
for the committee ?

A. 20
B. 22
C. 26
D. 30
E. 32
SOLUTION :
Each team of two can send only one person to the committee.
Selecting teams: Selecting 3 ‘teams of two members’ out of 4 ‘teams of two members’ can be
done in 4C3 ways = 4 ways

But each of these 3 teams can send exactly 1 person: 2C1 x 2C1 x 2C1 = 23 = 8

Total numbers of ways: 4 × 8 = 32

ANSWER E

8. In how many ways can 6 chocolates be distributed among 3 children ? A child may get any
number of chocolates and all the chocolates are identical.

A. 10
B. 15
C. 21
D. 28
E. 56

SOLUTION:
Distributing 6 identical chocolates among 3 children.
a + b + c = 6 where a , b , c ≥ 0
Using the partition method , To divide 6 chocolates among 3 children, use two partitions ‘P’ to
create 3 separate sections.

Say, 111P1P11 would represent that the first child got 3 chocolates, the second got 1, and the
third got 2.
PP111111 would represent that the first child got 0 chocolates, the second got 0, and the third
got 6.

8!
Arranging these 6 1’s and 2 P’s in a row, the total cases will be = 6!2!
= 28

ANSWER D
9. In how many ways can Nicole distribute 20 chocolates among Ben, Kate, Mark and Tom so
that each receives at least one ?

A. 20C4
B. 19C3
C. 21C4
D. 21C3
E. None of the answers is correct

SOLUTION :

Ben, Kate, Mark, and Tom must get at least 1 chocolate, So the chocolates available for
distribution are 20 - 4 = 16 chocolates.

To divide 16 chocolates among 4 children, use three partitions ‘P’ to create 4 separate sections.

19!
Arranging these 16 1’s and 3 P’s , the total ways will be = 16!3!
= 19C3

ANSWER B
10. Find the number of integer solutions to |a| + |b| + |c| = 10, where none of a, b or c is 0.

A. 36
B. 72
C. 144
D. 288
E. 576

SOLUTION :
Consider 10 1’s in a row. This row is separated by two partitions ‘P’ to create 3 sections. Each
section represents value of a, b, and c such that a + b + c = 10

None of a, b, or c is zero, So the number of 1’s available for distribution is 10 - 3 = 7 (1 is

distributed to each variable )

To divide 7 1’s among 3 variables, use two partitions ‘P’ to create 3 separate sections.

9!
Arranging these 7 1’s and 2 P’s in a row , the total ways will be = 7!2!
= 36

Each of the variables is present within the mod, So each of a,b, and c can be either positive or
negative, the combined possibilities of the signs = 23 = 8

(Example : 1 2 7 OR -1 2 7 OR -1 -2 7 OR -1 -2 -7 OR . . . . .so on )

Hence , the total number of possibilities = 36 x 8 = 288 ways

ANSWER D
11. How many triangles can be formed by joining 12 points, 7 of which are collinear?

A. 255
B. 220
C. 185
D. 35
E. 10

SOLUTION :
Given 7 points are collinear i.e. out of 12 points , 7 are on the same line and 5 points are
randomly scattered.

The number of triangles can be formed by the following ways:

1. Number of ways of selecting 1 point from 7 collinear points and 2 points from the remaining
5 points = 7c1 x 5c2
2. Number of ways of selecting 2 points from 7 collinear points and the other from the
remaining 5 points= 7c2 x 5c1
3. Number of ways of selecting 3 points from the remaining 5 points = 5c3

So the numbers of triangles that can be formed are :

=> 7c1 x 5c2 + 7c2 x 5c1 + 5c3
=> 7 x 10 + 21 x 5 + 10
=> 185

ANSWER C
12. Every morning, Casey walks from her house to the bus stop. She always travels exactly nine
blocks from her house to the bus, but she varies the route she takes every day. (One sample
route is shown.) How many days can Casey walk from her house to the bus stop without
repeating the same route ?

A. 120
B. 122
C. 124
D. 126
E. 128

SOLUTION:
Total blocks to travel = 9 blocks.
Casey has to travel 4 horizontal blocks and 5 vertical blocks - 4 H’s 5 V’s

9!
The number of ways she can travel without repeating the same route is 5! 4!
= 126

ANSWER D
13. In how many ways can 6 different letters be posted in 3 letterboxes such that each box
receives at least 1 letter?

A. 120
B. 180
C. 360
D. 540
E. 720

SOLUTION :
Distribution of letters can happen in three ways (3-2-1) (2-2-2) and (4-1-1) ways, where each
box has at least 1 letter.

Case 1: (3-2-1) => Boxes 1, 2, and 3 may contain 3, 2, and 1 letter/s.

= 6C3 x 3C2 x 3! (selecting 3 letters from 6 letters for box 1, selection of 2 letters from remaining
3 letters for box 2, remaining is considered for box 3, 3! for the cases where 3 letters can go into
one of the three boxes(3 ways) , then 2 letters can go into one of the two boxes left(2 ways) ,
and finally 1 letter will go into the remaining box (1 way) = 360

Case 2: (2-2-2) => Boxes 1, 2, and 3 may contain 2, 2, and 2 letters.

= 6C2 x 4C2 (selecting 2 letters from 6 letters for box 1, then selecting 2 letters from remaining 4
letters for box 2, remaining letters are considered for box 3)
= 15 x 6
= 90

Case 3: (4-1-1) => Boxes 1, 2, and 3 may contain 4, 1, and 1 letters.

3!
= 6C4 x 2C1 x 2!
(selecting 4 letters from 6 letters for box 1, then selecting 1 letters from
3!
remaining 2 letters for box 2, remaining letter is considered for box 3, 2!
for the different cases
we can make ( 4-1-1 , 1-4-1 , 1-1-4 ) = 90

Therefore, Total Ways = 360 + 90 + 90 = 540

ANSWER D
14. A 5-digit identification code is to be created as a sequence that contains each integer in the
set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} exactly once. If all identification codes are possible except those containing
even integers next to each other, how many different identification codes are possible ?

A. 120
B. 96
C. 72
D. 48
E. 24

SOLUTION :
Total ways to create a 5-digit identification code = 5! but both even numbers cannot be
together.

When both the even digits are taken together as one digit, we have 4 digits, i.e 1, 3, 5 and (24)
Number of ways to arrange these 4 numbers = 4!
Number of ways to arrange 2 and 4 among themselves = 2!

Therefore, ways possible = Total number of ways - Number of ways when even integers are
together = 5! - 4! x 2! = 120 - 48 = 72

ANSWER C
 Probability

Probability : It’s a ratio which gives ‘chance of occurrence of an event’.

Example : Chances of rain is 30% or 3 out of 10. This means that we can expect rain in 3 out of
10 days.

𝐹𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠
Probability of an event = P(E) = 𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠

𝐹𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠
Odds in favour = 𝑈𝑛𝑓𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠

𝑈𝑛𝑓𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠
Odds against = 𝐹𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑠𝑒𝑠

Properties:
In a single unbiased coin toss,
1
P(Heads) = 2
1
P(Tails) = 2
P(Heads) + P(Tails) = 1 = Total Probability

Apart from these 2 events , nothing else can happen. So , these events are called mutually
exhaustive events.
These events are mutually exclusive as well. This means that if a head appears , tails won’t
appear and vice versa. Mutually exclusive events have no intersection.
1
As p(H) = p(T) = 2
, we can say that the events are equally likely to happen.
(Having the same probability)

In a single roll of dice,

1
P(1) = 6
1
P(2) = 6
1
P(3) = 6
1
P(4) = 6
1
P(5) = 6
1
P(6) = 6
 1
P(1) = P(2) = P(3)= P(4) = P(5) = P(6) = 6
= Equally likely
P(1) + P(2) + P(3) + P(4) + P(5) + P(6) = 1 (mutually exhaustive events)

6
P(Positive Integer N) = 6
=1
P(Positive Integer N > 10) = 0
1 5
P ( not getting a 1 ) => 1 - P( getting a 1 ) => 1 - 6
= 6

NOTE :
P(E) + P(not E or 𝐸) = 1 (We will be using this often)

Range of P(Event] = [0, 1]

Sum of probabilities of all possible outcomes = 1

Example : Two coins are tossed together

a. Find the probability of getting both heads.
b.Find the probability of getting at least 1 head.
c. Find the total possible outcomes.

SOLUTION :
Total outcomes = {HH, HT, TH, TT} = 4
1
a. P(HH) = 4
b. P(at least 1 head) =

P(at least 1 head) + P(no heads) = 1

1 3
P(at least 1 head) = 1 - P(no heads : TT) = 1 - 4
= 4

c. Total possible outcomes = {HH, HT, TH, TT} = 4

If two events A and B are independent then, P(A and B) = P(A) x P(B)

Cards :
In a deck of 52 cards , we have 13 clubs , 13 diamonds , 13 hearts , and 13 spades.
Every category has 3 face cards (Jack , Queen , King)
So, we have a total of 12 face cards in a deck of 52 cards.

Example 1 : 1 card is drawn at random from a deck of 52 cards. Find :

4 1
P(Ace) = 52
= 13
26 1
P(Red) = 52
= 2
4 1
P(King)= 52
= 13

Example 2 : 2 cards are drawn simultaneously (together). Find :

4𝐶2 4×3
P(both Aces) = = 52 × 51
52𝐶2

4𝐶1 × 4𝐶1 4×4

P(Ace and a Queen) = =2 × 52 × 51
52𝐶2

Order doesn’t matter as we are going the selection way.

Example 3 : 2 cards are drawn one after the other (without replacement) Find :

4 3
P(both Aces) = P( Ace and Ace) = 52
× 51
4 4 4 4 4×4
P(Ace and a Queen) = P(A and Q) + P(Q and A) = 52
× 51
+ 52
× 51
=2 × 52 × 51
Order matters as we are going the arrangement way.

**As you can see , drawing 2 cards simultaneously OR one after the other(without replacement)
gives us the same answers.
Example 4 : 2 cards are drawn one after the other (with replacement) Find :

4 4
P(both Aces) = 52
× 52
4 4 4 4 4×4
P(Ace and a Queen) = P(A and Q) + P(Q and A) = 52
× 52
+ 52
× 52
=2 × 52 × 52

Example 5 : In a bag,there are 5 Blue and 6 Red Balls. Find :

5
P(Blue) = 11
6
P(Red) = 11

Example 6 : 2 balls are drawn simultaneously. Find :

5𝐶2
P(Both blue) =
11𝐶2

5𝐶2 + 6𝐶2
P(balls of the same color) =
11𝐶2

Example 7 : A box contains 2 red, 3 yellow and 4 blue balls. Three balls are drawn in succession
with replacement. Find the probability that

1. all are yellow

3 3 3
P(YYY) = P(Y) x P(Y) x P(Y) = 9
× 9
× 9

2. the first is red, the second is yellow, the third is blue

2 3 4
P(R and Y and B) = P(R) x P(Y) x P(B) = 9
× 9
× 9
3. none are yellow

6 6 6
P(𝑌 and 𝑌 and 𝑌) = P(𝑌) x P(𝑌) x P(𝑌) = 9
× 9
× 9

4. all three are of the same colour

P(same colour) = P(YYY) + P(RRR) + P(BBB)

3 3 3 2 2 2 4 4 4
= 9
× 9
× 9
+ 9
× 9
× 9
+ 9
× 9
× 9

Independent Events:

P(A and B) = P(A)× P(B)

P(A and B and C) = P(A)×P(B)×P(C)

Example 1 : A coin is tossed twice.Find the probability of getting both heads.

1 1 1 2
P(H and H) = P(H) x P(H) = 2
x 2
=(2)

Example 2 : A coin is tossed 5 times. Find the probability of getting all heads.
5 1 5
P(H and H and H and H and H) = 𝑃(𝐻) = ( 2 )

Example 3 : A coin is tossed 5 times. Find the probability of getting heads exactly 3 times on the
first three tosses.
3 2 1 5
P(HHHTT) = 𝑃(𝐻) 𝑃(𝑇) = ( 2 )
Example 4 : A coin is tossed 5 times. Find the probability of getting heads exactly 3 times.
P(getting heads exactly 3 times) =
Arrangements : HHHTT, HTTHH, HHTTH,..............
5 letter word : 3 H’s and 2 T’s
5!
Number of arrangements = 3! 2!
= 10
1 5
Every arrangement has the same probability = p = ( 2 )
1 5
So, P(getting heads exactly 3 times) = 10p = 10 x ( 2 )

Probability using Sets :

(A or B) = (A) + (B) - (both A and B)

Similarly, P(A or B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(both A and B)

Example 1 : A coin and a dice are tossed simultaneously. Find the probability of getting a head
or a 6.
SOLUTION :
Method 1 :
1 1 1 1 7
P (H or 6) = P(H) + P(6) - P(H and 6) = 2
+ 6
- 2
x 6
= 12

Method 2 :
P (H or 6) = P(Only H : H and 6) + P(both : H and 6) + P(Only 6 : 𝐻 and 6)
= P(H)P(6) + P(H)P(6) + P(𝐻)P(6)
1 5 1 1 1 1
= 2
× 6 + 2
× 6
+ 2
× 6
7
= 12
Example 2 : The ratios of the number of boys and girls in X-A and X-B are 3:1 and 2:5
respectively. A student is selected to be the chairman of the students' association. The chance
2
that the student is selected from X-A is 3
. Find the probability that the chairman will be a boy.

SOLUTION :
2
P(selecting a student from X-A) = 3
1
So, P(selecting a student from X-B) = 3

Class A ⇒ B : G = 3 : 1
Class B ⇒ B : G = 2 : 5

P(chairman is a boy) = P(selecting a student from Section A and then selecting a Boy) +
2 3 1 2
P(selecting a student from Section B and then selecting a Boy) = 3
× 4
+ 3
× 7

Application Of Independent Events:

Example :
3
P(A) = 4
(A's chance of hitting the target)
2
P(B) = 5
(B's chance of hitting the target)

a. Find the probability of both hitting the target.

3 2
P(A and B) = 4
x 5

b. Find the probability that the target is hit.

3 2 3 2 17
P(A or B) = P(A) + P(B) - P(A and B) = 4
+ 5
- 4
x 5
= 20
OR
3 3 1 2 3 2 17
P(Hitting the target) = P(A and 𝐵) + P(𝐴 and B) + P(A and B) = 4
x 5
+ 4
x 5
+ 4
x 5
= 20
OR
1 3 17
P(Hit the target) = 1 - P(None hits the target : 𝐴 𝐵) = 1 - 4
x 5
= 20
Conditional Probability :
By conditional probability, we mean the possibility of happening an event after the occurrence
of an event already.

Example 1 : A dice is rolled, and the outcome is an odd number. Find the probability of the
outcome being a prime number.
SOLUTION :
Total outcomes will be 3 (1,3,5)
favourable outcomes will be 2 (3,5)
𝑓𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 2
P(getting a prime number) = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙
= 3

Example 2 : Ten numbered cards are there from 1 to 15, and two cards are chosen at random
such that the sum of the numbers on both the cards is even. Find the probability that the
chosen cards are odd-numbered.

SOLUTION :
Total Outcomes : We can select 2 even numbered cards or 2 odd numbered cards to get an even
sum => We have 7 even numbered cards and 8 odd numbered cards => 7C2 + 8C2
Favourable outcomes : the chosen cards are odd-numbered => 8C2

𝑓𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 8𝐶2 4
P(2 chosen cards are odd-numbered) = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙
= 7𝐶2 + 8𝐶2
= 7

Example 3 : In a survey among few people, 60% read Hindi newspaper , 40% read English
newspaper and 20% read both. If a person is chosen at random and if he already reads English
newspaper , find the probability that he also reads Hindi newspaper.

SOLUTION :
Let there be 100 people in the survey, then
Number of people reading Hindi newspaper = 60
Number of people reading English newspaper = 40
Number of people reading both = 20
Total outcomes = Number of people reading English newspaper = 40
Favourable outcomes = Number of people reading both = 20
𝑓𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒 20 1
P(that the person also reads Hindi newspaper) = 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙
= 40
= 2
QUESTIONS

1. The probability is 0.5 that a certain coin will turn up heads on any given toss. If the coin is to
be tossed three times, what is the probability that on at least one of the tosses the coin will turn
up tails?

A. 1/8
B. 1/2
C. 3/4
D. 7/8
E. 15/16

SOLUTION :
1
Probability of either a head or tail = 2
1
Coin tossed three times = ( 2 )3
1 7
P(at least 1 tails) = 1 - P(no tails) = 1 - ( 2 )3 = 8

ANSWER D
2. What is the probability of rolling the same number exactly three times with five six-sided dice
?

A. 1/5
B. 5/18
C. 35/216
D. 125/648
E. 225/1296

SOLUTION:
1 1
When five dice are rolled. The probability of rolling {a, a, a, other, other} in this order is: 6
x 6
x
2
1 5 5 5
6
x 6
x 6
= 5
6

The number of ways of rolling three same numbers in five rolls = 5C3 = 10

Accounting for all the numbers that can be the same (i.e. three 1s, three 2s, three 3s, three 4s,
three 5s, and three 6s) , the number of possibilities is 6.
2
5 125
Hence, Probability = ( 5 )×(10)×(6) = 648
6

ANSWER D
3. A bag contains 3 red, 4 black and 2 white balls. What is the probability of drawing a red and a
white ball in two successive draws, each ball being put back after it is drawn?

A. 2/27
B. 1/9
C. 1/3
D. 4/27
E. 2/9

SOLUTION:
This is a case of replacement.
Total number of balls = 9
3
Drawing a red ball = 9
2
Drawing a white ball = 9
3 2 4
Probability = 2 x 9
x 9
= 27
(There are two possible orders i.e. Red White or White Red, hence we are multiplying by 2)

ANSWER D
4. In a jar, 9 balls are white and the rest are red. If two balls are to be chosen at random from
the jar without replacement, the probability that the balls chosen will both be white is 6/11.
What is the number of balls in the jar?

A. 10
B. 11
C. 12
D. 13
E. 15

SOLUTION:
Consider there are n balls, out of which 9 are white and the rest are red.

Total no of ways to select 2 balls out of n = nC2

9𝐶2 6
P( both balls selected are white ) = 𝑛𝐶2
= 11

Solve by standard method to find value of n

OR use option choices to get n

Since the denominator is a multiple of 11, the only possible answer choices are either option B
or C.

10 9𝐶2 6
It will not be option B as 11C2= 11 x 2
= 11 x 5 and there is no factor of 5 in 9C2 . 11𝐶2
≠ 11
Therefore, 12 is the correct answer.

ANSWER C
5. Laura has a deck of standard playing cards with 13 of the 52 cards designated as "heart." If
Laura shuffles the deck thoroughly and then deals 10 cards off the top of the deck, what is the
probability that the 10th card dealt is a heart ?

A. 1/4
B. 1/5
C. 5/26
D. 12/42
E. 13/42

SOLUTION :
A standard 52-card deck has 13 spades, 13 diamonds, 13 clubs, and 13 hearts.

13 1
A card has a 52
= 4
chance of being a heart. It doesn't matter if it's the top card in the deck or
the tenth card in the deck.

ANSWER A
6. Two cards are drawn at random from a pack of 52 cards without replacement. What is the
probability that one is a club and the other is an ace?

A. 1/52
B. 1/26
C. 1/13
D. 4/13
E. 7/13

SOLUTION :
In a standard deck, there are 13 club cards, out of which one is an Ace.
51
Total ways to select 2 cards out of 52 = 52C2 = 52 x 2
= 26 x 51

Case 1: Ways to select any of 3 aces and one of the 13 clubs (including the club ace) = 3C1 x 13C1
= 3 x 13 = 39

Case 2: Ace of the club and one out of the remaining 12 club cards = 1C1 x 12C1 = 1 x 12 = 12

Favourable cases = Total of case 1 and case 2 = 39 + 12 = 51

51 1
Hence, Probability = 26 × 51
= 26

ANSWER B
7. There is an 80% chance that Deeksha will skip her lunch and 25% chance that there will be a
power failure. If these events are independent, what is the probability that Deeksha will skip her
lunch OR that there will be a power failure?

A. 20%
B. 80%
C. 85%
D. 95%
E. 105%

SOLUTION:
Skipping lunch and power failure are independent events.
Chance of skipping lunch = 80% = 0.8
Chance of power failure = 25% = 0.25

Probability (skip lunch OR power failure) = Probability (skip lunch) + Probability (power failure) -
Probability (skip lunch AND power failure)

Probability (skip lunch AND power failure) = Probability (skip lunch) x Probability (power failure)
= (0.8) (0.25) = 0.20

Hence, P (skip lunch OR power failure) = P (skip lunch) + P (power failure) - P (skip lunch AND
power failure) = (0.8) + (0.25) - (0.2) = .85 or 85%

ANSWER C
8. The chance of rain in Dennyville is 40% on Monday and 80% on Tuesday. What is the
probability that it rains in Dennyville on at least one of these two days?

A. 120%
B. 88%
C. 76%
D. 60%
E. 32%

SOLUTION :

Probability of raining on at least one of the two days = 1 - ( Probability of raining none of the
days )
Probability of NOT raining on Monday = 60% = 0.6
Probability of NOT raining on Tuesday = 20% = 0.2

Hence, the Probability of raining on at least one of the two days = 1 - (0.6 x 0.2) = 1 - 0.12
= 0.88 = 88%

ANSWER B
9. Let A be the event that a randomly selected two digit number is divisible by 3 and let B be the
event that a randomly selected two digit number is divisible by 5. What is P(A and B)?

A. 1/18
B. 1/15
C. 1/5
D. 1/3
E. 1/2

SOLUTION :
A and B are two independent events
P(A and B) = P(A) x P(B)

Total two-digit numbers = 90

=> the number of events where a two-digit number is divisible by both 5 and 3 => 6 ( ranges
from 15 to 90 )

6 1
P(A and B) = 90
= 15

ANSWER B
10. In a shooting contest, each participant only shoots one time. There are 3 participants A, B
and C. The probability that A, B and C hit the target are 0.7, 0.6 and 0.5 respectively. What is the
probability that there is at least one participant who hits the target ?

A. 0.45
B. 0.75
C. 0.79
D. 0.8
E. 0.94

SOLUTION :
The probability of A missing the target = 0.3
The probability of B missing the target = 0.4
The probability of C missing the target = 0.5

Now, P(at least one person hitting the target) = 1 - P(none hitting the target)

= 1 - (0.3 x 0.4 x 0.5)

= 1 - 0.06
= 0.94

ANSWER E
11. In a small lake, it is estimated that there are 105 fish, of which 40 are trout and 65 are carp.
A fisherman caught eight fish; what is the probability that exactly two of them are trout if we
know that at least three of them are not?

SOLUTION:
The fisherman can catch 6 carp and 2 trout in (65C6)(40C2) ways,

The fisherman can catch at least 3 carp in => Total - (when there are 0 OR 1 OR 2 carps) ways

Total ways of catching eight fish = 105𝐶8

The fisherman can catch 0 carp in => (65C0 ) (40C8 ) ways

The fisherman can catch 1 carp in => (65C1 ) (40C7 ) ways

The fisherman can catch 2 carp in => (65C2 ) (40C6 ) ways

Therefore, the probability of catching exactly 2 trout given that at least 3 of the 8 fish caught are
carp
𝑓𝑎𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒
= 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙

(65𝐶6)(40𝐶2)
= 𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 − (𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 0 𝑂𝑅 1 𝑂𝑅 2 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑝𝑠)

(65𝐶6)(40𝐶2)
= 105𝐶8 − [(65𝐶0)40𝐶8) + (65𝐶1)(40𝐶7)+ (65𝐶2) (40𝐶6)
12. A string of 10 lightbulbs is wired in such a way that if any individual light bulb fails, the entire
string fails. If for each individual lightbulb the probability of failing during time period T is 0.06,
what is the probability that the string of lightbulbs will fail during time period T ?

A.0.06
B. (0.06)10
C. 1-(0.06)10
D. (0.94)10
E. 1 - (0.94)10

SOLUTION:
The string of light bulbs will fail if at least one light bulb fails.

P(at least 1 fails) + P(none fails) = 1

The probability of each light bulb not failing = 1 - 0.06 = 0.94

Hence, the probability that none of the 10 light bulbs fail = 0.9410

P(at least one fails) = 1 - P(none of the 10 fails)

P(at least one fails) = 1 - 0.9410

Therefore, the probability that at least one light bulb fails is 1 - 0.9410.

ANSWER E
13. There are 10 women and 3 men in room A. One person is picked at random from room A
and moved to room B, where there are already 3 women and 5 men. If a single person is then to
be picked from room B, what is the probability that a woman will be picked ?

A. 13/21
B. 49/117
C. 15/52
D. 5/18
E. 40/117

SOLUTION:
Case 1: When a woman is picked from room A:

10
The probability of selecting a woman from room A = 13
If that woman is moved to room B, there are now 4 women and 5 men in room B, and thus, the
4
probability of selecting a woman from room B = 9

10 4 40
For Case 1, the overall probability of selecting a woman = 13
x 9
= 117

Case 2: When a man is picked from room A

3
The probability of selecting a man from room A = 13

If that man is moved to room B, there are now 3 women and 6 men in room B, and the
3
probability of selecting a woman from room B is 9

3 3 9
For Case 2, the overall probability of selecting a woman is 13
x 9
= 117

40 9 49
So, the probability of selecting a woman from room B is 117
+ 117
= 117

ANSWER B
 INEQUALITY & MODULUS

Inequality

Equalities : a = b ⇒ LHS = RHS

Inequalities : > , < , ≥ , ≤ , ≠

Example :
1. x > 4

2. x ≥ 4

3. x < 4

4. x ≤ 4
Operations on inequalities:

Addition:
If we add the same number to both sides, the sign of inequality won’t change.

Example : 3 > -2
Adding 100 on both sides of the inequality
3 + 100 > -2 + 100
⇒ 103 > 98 (Inequality won’t change)

Example : - 2 < -1
Adding 6 on both sides of the inequality
-2 + 6 < -1 + 6
⇒ 4 < 5 (Inequality won’t change)

Subtraction:
If we subtract the same number from both sides, the sign of inequality won’t change.

Example : 3 > -2
Subtracting 100 from both sides of the inequality
3 - 100 > -2 - 100
⇒ -97 > -102 (Inequality won’t change)

Example : - 2 < -1
Subtracting 6 from both sides of the inequality
-2 - 6 < -1 - 6
⇒ -8 < -7
Multiplication:
If we multiply the same positive number to both sides, it won’t change the sign of inequality.
But if we multiply the same negative number to both sides, it will reverse the sign of inequality.

Example : 3 > -2
Multiplying 10 on both sides of the inequality
3×10 > -2 ×10
⇒ 30 > -20 (Inequality won’t change)

Example : - 2 < -1
Multiplying (-6) on both sides of the inequality
-2×(-6) < -1 ×(-6)
⇒ 12 > 6 (Inequality will reverse)

Division:
If we divide by the same positive number to both sides, it won’t change the sign of inequality.
But if we divide by the same negative number on both sides, it will reverse the sign of
inequality.

Example : 3 > -2
Dividing by 2 on both sides of the inequality
3÷2 > -2 ÷2
⇒ 1.5 > -1 (Inequality won’t change)

Example : - 2 < -1
Dividing by (-2) on both sides of the inequality
(-2) ÷ (-2) < -1 ÷(-2)
⇒ 1 > 0.5 (Inequality will reverse)
1. Solve for x : x - 4 > -14
=> Adding 14 to both sides
=> x - 4 + 14 > -14 + 14
=> x + 10 > 0 ⇒ x > -10

2. Solve for x : -10 > x+3 > -20

=> Subtracting 3 from all three sides,
=> -13 > x > -23
Finding the signs of x and y :
When we are saying x or y is positive/negative, it means x or y will not be 0.
xy > 0
Case 1 : (x, y) = (+ , +)
Case 2 : (x, y) = (- , -)
x and y will have the same signs.

𝑥
𝑦
>0
Case 1 : (x, y) = (+ , +)
Case 2 : (x, y) = (- , -)
x and y will have the same signs.

xy < 0
Case 1 : (x, y) = (+ , -)
Case 2 : (x, y) = (- , +)
x and y will have opposite signs.

𝑥
𝑦
<0
Case 1 : (x, y) = (+ , -)
Case 2 : (x, y) = (- , +)
x and y will have opposite signs.

Comment on the value of x

If a > b then ax > bx : Inequality does not change after multiplying by x.

So x must be positive ⇒ x > 0.

𝑎 𝑏
If a > b then 𝑥
> 𝑥
: Inequality does not change after dividing by x.
So x must be positive ⇒ x > 0.

If a > b then ax < bx : Inequality changes after multiplying by x.

So x must be negative ⇒ x < 0.
 𝑎 𝑏
If a > b then 𝑥
< 𝑥
: Inequality changes after dividing by x.
So x must be negative ⇒ x < 0.

𝑎 𝑐
If 𝑏
> 𝑑
, then we can’t just cross multiply and write ad > bc. Unless we know the signs of
each denominator , we should not cross multiply.

−𝑎
1. Which of the following will be equivalent to 3𝑏
< 𝑐, for non zero values of a, b and c.

𝑎
I. 𝑏
>− 3𝑐
−𝑎
II. 3
< 𝑏𝑐
III. 𝑎 >− 3𝑏𝑐

SOLUTION :
𝑎
Multiplying both sides by -3 ⇒ 𝑏
>− 3𝑐
We can’t multiply b to both sides as we don’t know the sign of b.
ANSWER I
Critical points : Those points where the expression is zero or not defined.

1. (x - 1)(x - 2) ≤ 0
Critical points : x = 1, 2
We want the expression to give a negative or a zero value. As there are 2 critical points , there
will be 3 regions.The expression will be negative or zero when x lies between 1 and 2(both
points included). The other two regions will give a positive value of the expression which is not
required.

1 ≤ x ≤ 2.

𝑥−1
2. 𝑥−2
≤0

Critical points : x = 1, 2
Here , at x = 2 inequality is not defined.
We want the expression to give a negative or a zero value. As there are 2 critical points , there
will be 3 regions.The expression will be negative or zero when x lies between 1 and 2(Only x=1 is
included in the range). The other two regions will give a positive value of the expression which
is not required.

1 ≤ x < 2.
3. (x + 1)(x - 2) ≥ 0

Critical points : x = -1, 2

x ≤ -1 or x ≥ 2.

4. (x + 1)(x + 2)(x - 3) > 0

Critical points : x = -1, -2, 3

-2 < x < -1 or x > 3.

(𝑥+1)(𝑥+2)
5. 𝑥−2
≥0

Critical points : x = -1, -2, 2

Here, at x = 2 inequality is not defined.

-2 ≤ x ≤ -1 or x > 2.
Find the range of x.

2
1. 𝑥 > 𝑥
2
𝑥 − 𝑥 > 0
x (x - 1) > 0
The critical points are 0 and 1
=> x < 0 or x > 1

2
2. 𝑥 < 𝑥
2
𝑥 − 𝑥 < 0
x (x - 1) < 0
The critical points are 0 and 1
=> 0 < x < 1

2
3. 𝑥 = 𝑥 (find the values of x)
2
=> 𝑥 − 𝑥 = 0
=> x (x - 1) = 0
=> x = 0 or x = 1

3
4. 𝑥 > 𝑥
3
𝑥 − 𝑥 > 0
2
𝑥 (𝑥 − 1) > 0
x(x - 1)(x + 1) > 0
=> -1 < x < 0 or x > 1

3
5. 𝑥 < 𝑥
3
𝑥 − 𝑥 < 0
2
𝑥 (𝑥 − 1) < 0
x(x - 1)(x + 1) < 0
=> x < -1 or 0 < x < 1
NOTE :
1
If 𝑥
> 0 , then x > 0

1 1
If 𝑥
< -x , then 𝑥
+x<0
2
1+𝑥
⇒ 𝑥
<0
2
Since 1 + 𝑥 is always > 0
So, x < 0.

Find the range of x.

2
1. 𝑥 > 0
=> All real values except 0. R - {0}

3
2. 𝑥 ≥ 0
=> x ≥ 0

2
3. 𝑥 (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 1) > 0
2
As 𝑥 > 0 , So (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 1) > 0
=> x > 1 or x < -1

(𝑥+3)(𝑥−4)
4. 3 ≤ 0
𝑥
3
𝑥 can be treated as x. (Sign wise)

(𝑥+3)(𝑥−4)
≤ 0
𝑥
Critical points : -3,0,4.
=> x ≤ -3 or 0 < x ≤ 4
 2 2
5. If 𝑥 > 𝑦 ,then which of the following must be true ?

A. x > y
B. x < y
C. x > 0
D. y < 0
E. x and y should be of the same sign.

SOLUTION :
2 2
𝑥 >𝑦
2 2
(− 2) > (1) (Reject Option A and D)
2 2
(2) > (1) (Reject Option B)
2 2
(− 2) > (− 1) (Reject Option C)
From the above examples, none of the conditions MUST be true.

2
6. If 𝑥 > 𝑦 ,then which of the following must be true ?

I. x > y
II. x < y

SOLUTION :
1
Take x = 2
=y
2
Here x = y and 𝑥 > 𝑦
So, both the statements MUST not be true.

A few examples :
1 1
1. x = 3
y= 2
2
Here x < y and 𝑥 > 𝑦

2. x = 2 y = -1
2
Here x > y and 𝑥 > 𝑦
 5
7. Find the range of values of x such that (x+1)(12 − 3𝑥) (x+3)(5−x)<0

A. x > 5
B. 4 < x < 5
C. -3 < x < -2
D. (-3 < x < -1) or (4 < x < 5)
E. (x - 3) or (x > 5)

SOLUTION :
5
(x + 1)(12 − 3𝑥) (x + 3) ( 5 − x ) < 0
5
(x + 1) (3𝑥 − 12) (x + 3) ( x - 5 ) < 0
5
(x + 1)(𝑥 − 4) (x + 3)( x - 5) < 0
The above expression is equivalent to
(x + 1) (x - 4) (x + 3) (x - 5) < 0
Critical points : -3 , -1 , 4 , 5
=> -3 < x < -1 OR 4 < x < 5.

ANSWER E.
Effect of squaring and cubing :

Given , x > y

Squaring may or may not change the sign of inequality.

Example 1 : 4 > 3
Squaring won’t change the inequality here as 16 > 9.

Example 2 : -3 > -4
Squaring WILL change the inequality here as 9 < 16.

Cubing / Cube rooting WILL NOT change the sign of inequality.

Example 1 : 4 > 3
Cubing won’t change the inequality here as 64 > 27.

Example 2 : -3 > -4
Cubing won’t change the inequality here as -27 > -64.

Example 3 : -27 > -64

Cube rooting won’t change the inequality here as -3 > -4.

Application :
3
If 𝑥 < 64 ⇒ x < 4
3
If x > 3 ⇒ 𝑥 > 27
ADDING THE INEQUALITIES :

If x > 10 and y > -100 , then find the range of x + y.

x > 10
y > -100
As the direction of inequality is same, we can add them
x + y > -90 (simple addition but make sure inequality should be same)

If x > -10 and y < 100 , then find the range of x - y

x > -10
y < 100 => -y > -100
As the direction of inequality is the same, we can add them.
x - y > -110 (simple addition but make sure inequality should be same)
QUESTIONS

1. How many positive integer values of x less than 10 would satisfy the following inequality
2
𝑥 − 𝑥 − 42
𝑥−3
≥ 0

A. Two
B. Three
C. Four
D. Five
E. Six

SOLUTION :

(𝑥 − 7)(𝑥 + 6)
𝑥−3
≥ 0
GIVEN : x < 10

Total five positive integers will satisfy given conditions = 1,2,7,8,9

ANSWER D
 6𝑥−5
2. Which of the following could be the graph of 2 − 5𝑥 ≥ −3
?

SOLUTION :
6𝑥−5
2 − 5𝑥 ≥ −3
Multiplying both the sides of inequality by -3 , we get
-6 + 15x ≤ 6x - 5 (Inequality reverses)
1
9x ≤ 1 ⇒ x ≤ 9

ANSWER A
 3 5
(𝑥 − 10) (𝑥 + 7)
3. Find the range of values of x that satisfy the inequality 5 4 >0
(𝑥 − 5) (𝑥 − 6)

A. -7 < x < 5 or x > 10

B. -7 < x < 5
C. x > 10
D. -6 < x < 5 or x > 11
E. -7 < x < 4 or x > 12

SOLUTION :
Critical points: x = -7, 5, 6, 10
(To be precise , the expression gives negative value to the left and to the right of x = 6. So this
value doesn’t give a change in the sign of expression and hence could have been rejected.)

At x = 5 and 6, the inequality is not defined.

Plotting critical points on the number line:

Values greater than 10 and between -7 and 5 are positive, hence satisfying the equation.

=> -7 < x < 5 or x > 10

ANSWER A
4. If it is true that m2 < 9 and m > -1 , which of the following must be true ?

A. m > -3
B. m > 1
C. m > 3
D. m < 1
E. None of the above

SOLUTION :
m2 < 9
m2 - 9 < 0
(m-3)(m+3) < 0
Critical points will be 3 and -3. Between -3 and 3 , the expression m2 - 9 gives a negative value.
Hence, −3 < m < 3

Also, m > −1.

Combining the two conditions => we get −1 < m < 3

Evaluate options range :

A. m > −3 ..Any value of m(−1 < m < 3) must be greater than -3.Hence A must be true

B. m > 1 .. m can be 0. Eliminate

C. m > 3 ..m can never be more than 3. Eliminate

D. m < 1 ..m can be 1. Eliminate

E. None of the above Eliminate

ANSWER A
5. If 0 ≤ x ≤ 4 and y < 12, which of the following CANNOT be the value of xy?

A. -2
B. 0
C. 6
D. 24
E. 48

SOLUTION:
Evaluate each option:
A. -2 ..x = 1, y = -2, then xy = -2
B. 0 ..x = 0, y = 1, then xy = 0
C. 6 ..x = 1, y = 6, then xy = 6
D. 24 ..x = 4, y = 6, then xy = 24
E. 48 ..The maximum value of x is 4 and the maximum value of y is less than 12 Hence
xy cannot be 48, considering 4 x (some value less than 12) will be less than 48.
Hence, 48 is not possible.

ANSWER E
6. If 4x + 2 < x2 + 3x − 18 < 0, where x is an integer, what is the value of x ?

A. -6
B. -5
C. -4
D. 6
E. 7

SOLUTION :
Break the equation into two parts,
Consider 1st part:
4x + 2 < x2 + 3x − 18
x2 − x − 20 > 0
(x − 5)(x + 4) > 0
Critical points are 5 , - 4
The expression x2 − x − 20 gives a positive value when x is greater than 5 or when x is less than
-4.
So , x > 5 or x < -4 ..range 1

Consider 2nd part:

x2 + 3x − 18 < 0
(x + 6)(x − 3) < 0
Critical points are -6 , 3
The expression x2 + 3x − 18 gives a negative value when x is greater than -6 and when x is less
than 3.
So, -6 < x < 3 ..range 2

Combining range (1) and (2), we have -6 < x < -4

Only value x = -5 satisfies.

ANSWER B
7. If g and h are integers and g/h > 1, which of the following would illustrate the position of g
and h on the number line?

SOLUTION:
𝑔
Given ℎ
> 1, Here, g and h must be of the same sign i.e. g and h must be either both positive or
negative.

If g and h are both positive, then g > h

if g and h are both negative, then g < h

After extracting these clues, Evaluate options :

Option A: Accurately depicts that g and h are negative and g < h, Hence Correct.

Option B: Integers g and h are both positive, but g < h, Eliminate

Option C: Integers g and h don't have the same sign, Eliminate

Option D: Integers g and h don't have the same sign, Eliminate

Option E: Integers g and h are both negative, but h < g, Eliminate

ANSWER A
8. If x is an integer and 9 < x2 < 99, then what is the value of the maximum possible value of x
minus the minimum possible value of x ?

A. 5
B. 6
C. 7
D. 18
E. 20

SOLUTION:
TRAP: The possible values of x = 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.

But here x can take both positive and negative integer values to satisfy 9 < x2 < 99

Consider the value of x on both sides of the number line, the possible values are -9, -8, -7, -6, -5
, -4 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7, 8, and 9.

Now, xmax = 9 and xmin = − 9

The difference = xmax − xmin = 9 −(−9) = 18

ANSWER D
9. If -3 < x < 5 and -7 < y < 9, which of the following represent the range of all possible values of
y-x?

A. -4 < y - x < 4
B. -2 < y - x < 4
C. -12 < y - x < 4
D. -12 < y - x < 12
E. 4 < y -x < 12

SOLUTION :
Here, Range(y - x) = Min(y − x) to Max(y − x)

The maximum value of y − x = 9 − (−3) = 12

The minimum value of y − x = −7 − (5) = −12

Therefore, the range of all possible values of y − x lies between −12 and 12
I.e. −12 < y − x < 12

ANSWER D
10. If x > y > 0, which of the following must be negative?

I. y − x3
II. x2y − x3
III. x2y − xy2

A. I only
B. II only
C. III only
D. I and II
E. I and III

SOLUTION:
Considering the condition, evaluate options:

I. y − x3
Let x = 1/2 and y = 1/4 ,
y − x3 will be positive. Eliminate

II. x2y − x3
x2(y − x) : x2 is always positive, as x > 0. y − x will be always negative as x > y.
Hence , x2y − x3 will always be negative.

III. x2y − xy2

xy(x − y) : xy is positive, and (x−y) is positive. The product is always positive. Eliminate

ANSWER B
11. −1 < a − b < 10, with b an integer such that −3 ≤ b ≤ 1. What most accurately describes the
range of a2?

A. −16 < a2 < 11

B. −4 < a2 < 11
C. 0 < a2 < 16
D. 0 < a2 < 121
E. 16 < a2 < 121

SOLUTION:
b is an integer between -3 and 1, inclusive, b could be -3, -2, -1, 0 or 1.

two extreme values of b, i.e. b = -3 and b = 1:

Case 1: If b = -3,

-1 < a - (-3) < 10

-1 < a + 3 < 10
-4 < a < 7

0 ≤ a2 < 49 [a could be 0, the minimum value of a2 is 0.]

Case 2: If b = 1,
-1 < a - 1 < 10
0 < a < 11
0 < a2 < 121

a2 can be almost as large as 121 and almost as small as 0, Hence 0 < a2 < 121

ANSWER D
 𝑥
12. If y < 0 and 4x > y , which of the following could be equal to 𝑦
?

A. 0
1
B. 4
1
C. 2
D. 1
E. 4

SOLUTION :

4x > y .. divide both the sides by y

4𝑥
𝑦
<1 ..y is negative, reverse the inequality sign

4𝑥 1
4𝑦
< 4
..divide both sides by 4

𝑥 1
𝑦
< 4

1
Among answer choices, 0 is less than 4

ANSWER A
 2
(𝑥 − 4)
13. Find the range of values of x that satisfy the inequality 2 <0
(𝑥 − 5)(𝑥 − 9)

A. x < -3 or 3 < x < 5

B. x < -3 or -2 < x < 2
C. -2 < x < 2 or 3 < x < 5
D. x < -3 or -2 < x < 2 or 3 < x < 5
E. x < -3

SOLUTION:
Simplifying inequality
(𝑥+2)(𝑥−2)
(𝑥–5)(𝑥+3)(𝑥−3)
<0
Critical points: x = -3, -2, 2, 3, and 5
Here at x = -3, 3, and 5 inequality is not defined.

Plotting the critical points in the graph:

Values of x less than -3, between -2 and 2, and 3 and 5 will make the
(𝑥+2)(𝑥−2)
expression (𝑥–5)(𝑥+3)(𝑥−3)
negative, hence satisfying the inequality.

The solution is represented as x < -3 or -2 < x < 2 or 3 < x < 5

ANSWER D
 Modulus

Definition and Graph

|𝑥| = 𝑥 , 𝑥 ≥ 0
− 𝑥 , 𝑥 < 0

Example :
|0| = 0
|3| = 3
|-3| = - (-3) = 3

Modulus makes everything positive or 0.

Example : |-20| = 20
We know that the final result is 20. How did the mod open ????
It opened with a negative sign so as to make the inside value positive.
|-20| = - (-20) = 20.

2
**We define 𝑥 = |𝑥|
4 4
Similarly, 𝑥 = |𝑥| and so on only for EVEN powers.
 2
Example 1: if (𝑥 + 4) = 3 , then find the values of x - 4.
SOLUTION :
|x+4|=3
Case 1 : x + 4 ≥ 0 => x ≥ -4
=> x + 4 = 3
=> x = -1 (VALID)

Case 2 : x + 4 < 0 => x < -4

=> -(x + 4) = 3
=> x = -7 (VALID)
x - 4 = -5 or -11

4 4 2
Example 2 : if z < 0 , then (4𝑧 − 5) + (2𝑧 − 3) + − 𝑧|𝑧| = ….

4 4 2
=> (4𝑧 − 5) + (2𝑧 − 3) + − 𝑧|𝑧|
2
=> |4z - 5| + |2z - 3| + 𝑧 (As z < 0 , |𝑧| = -z )
=> |4z - 5| + |2z - 3| + |z|
=> -(4z - 5) - (2z - 3) - z
=> 8 - 7z

FInd the range of x :

1. |x| = x
=> x ≥ 0

2.|x| = -x
=> x ≤ 0

3.|x| > x
=> x < 0
4. -x|x| > x
=> x < 0

5. -x|x| > 0
=> x < 0

Modulus Equality and Inequality :

|x| = a
x = a or -x = a
⇒ x = a or x = -a

If |x| < a ⇒ -a < x < a

If |x| > a ⇒ x > a or x < -a
If |x| ≤ a ⇒ -a ≤ x ≤ a
If |x| ≥ a ⇒ x ≥ a or x ≤ -a

Example 1 : |x| > 1

x > 1 (When x is positive or 0) or -x > 1 (When x is negative)
⇒ x > 1 or x < -1

Example 2 :|x| ≥ 1
x ≥ 1 (When x is positive or 0) or -x ≥ 1 (When x is negative)
⇒ x ≥ 1 or x ≤ -1

Example 3 :|x| < 1

x < 1 (When x is positive or 0) or -x < 1 (When x is negative)
⇒ x < 1 or x > -1 => -1 < x < 1

Example 4 :|x| ≤ 1
x ≤ 1 (When x is positive or 0) or -x ≤ 1 (When x is negative)
⇒ x ≤ 1 or x ≥ -1 => -1 ≤ x ≤ 1

Example 5 : |x + 1| > 2
x + 1 > 2 or -(x + 1) > 2
⇒ x > 1 or x < -3
Example 6 : |x + 1| < 2
x + 1 < 2 or -(x + 1) < 2
⇒ x < 1 or x > -3 => -3 < x < 1

***If |a| = |b|, then a = b or a = -b

1. Solve |x + 2| = |y + 2|
SOLUTION :
x + 2 = y + 2 or x + 2 = - (y + 2)
=> x = y or x + y = -4

2. |7 - 3j| ≤ 8 , then find the range of j.

SOLUTION :
-8 ≤ 7 - 3j ≤ 8
-15 ≤ -3j ≤ 1 (Subtracting 7 from all sides and dividing by -3)
−1
5≥ j ≥ 3
−1
=> 3
≤ j ≤ 5.

3. if n is an integer , then the greatest possible value of 12 - |32 - 7n| is __________ .

SOLUTION :
To find greatest possible value of 12 - |32 - 7n| we have to find minimum value of |32 - 7n|
Put n = 5 in |32 - 7n| to get 3.
So, Greatest Possible Value ⇒ 12 - |32 - 7n| = 9
Try to choose n (integer) in such a way that 7n is closer to 32.
4. If a ≠ b and |a-b| = b-a, which of the following statements must be true?

I. a < 0
II. a + b < 0
III. a < b

SOLUTION :
|a - b| = - (a - b)
|x| = -x ⇒ x < 0
a - b < 0 ⇒ a < b (Statement III)
Say a = 3 and b = 6 ⇒ a < b but a is not < 0 and a + b is also not < 0
(Reject Statement I and II)

ANSWER III
QUESTIONS

1. if p is a negative number and 0 < s <|p|, which of the following must also be a negative
number?

A. (p + s)2
B. (p − s)2
C. (s − p)2
D. p2 − s2
E. s2 − p2

SOLUTION:
Here substituting numbers in place of variables would be an easy approach

Let s = 1 and p = -2.

A. (p+s)2 => (-1)2 = 1, not negative, Eliminate

B. (p−s)2 => (-3)2 = 9, not negative, Eliminate
C. (s−p)2 => 32 = 9, not negative, Eliminate
D. p2−s2 => (-2)2 - 12 = 4 - 1 = 3, not negative, Eliminate
E. s2−p2 => 12 - (-2)2 = 1 - 4 = -3, negative value, Hence correct

ANSWER E
2. If |x2–6| = x, which of the following could be the value of x?

A. –2
B. 0
C. 1
D. 3
E. 5

SOLUTION :
Case 1: Value inside the mod is positive or 0 ; x2 - 6 ≥ 0
x2 - 6 = x
x2 - x - 6 =0
(x - 3)(x + 2) = 0
x = 3 or -2
When x = 3 and -2 is substituted in |x2–6| = x, x = -2 doesn't satisfy the question.
hence x = -2 is eliminated. So x = 3.

Case 2: x2 - 6 ≤ 0
- (x2 - 6) = x
- x2 + 6 = x
x2 + x - 6 = 0
x2+3x-2x-6 = 0
x(x+3)-2(x+3) = 0
(x+3)(x-2) = 0
x = -3 or 2

When x = -3 and 2 is substituted in |x2–6| = x, x = -3 doesn't satisfy the question, hence x = -3 is

eliminated. So, x = 2

From the available answer choices, x = 3

ANSWER D
3. If m is a positive number and n is a negative number, and |m| > |n|, then which of the
following has the greatest value?

𝑚 −𝑛
A. | 𝑛
|
𝑚 −𝑛
B. | 𝑚 |
𝑚+𝑛
C. | 𝑚 −𝑛 |
𝑚+𝑛
D. | 𝑛 |
𝑚+𝑛
E. | 𝑚 |

SOLUTION:
MENTAL APPROACH: m is a positive number and n is a negative number, Hence m - n > m + n

𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑣𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒

The arrangement for the greatest value = 𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑣𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒
Thus options C, D, and E can be eliminated, because they don’t have the greatest possible value
available in the numerator.

Now between options A and B, the one with a lesser denominator(magnitude wise) i.e., n will
have the greatest value. According to this, Option B can be eliminated as it contains a greater
value(magnitude wise) in the denominator. This arrangement would decrease the value.

𝑚 −𝑛
Hence | 𝑛
| would have the greatest value among the other options.

ANSWER A
4. If |2x + 1| < 3x - 2, then which of the following represents all possible values of x?

A. -3 < x < 0.2

B. x > -3
C. x < -3
D. 0.2 < x < 3
E. x > 3

SOLUTION :
|2x + 1| < 3x - 2 can be expanded as 2x + 1 < 3x - 2 and -(2x + 1) < 3x - 2

1
Case 1: 2x + 1 < 3x - 2 CONDITION : 2x + 1 ≥ 0 or x ≥ − 2
=> 3x - 2x > 1 + 2
=> x > 3 (VALID)

1
Case 2: -(2x + 1) < 3x - 2 CONDITION : 2x + 1 < 0 or x < − 2
=> 3x + 2x > 2 - 1
=> 5x > 1
1 1 1
=> x > 5
(INVALID) This is an invalid case as x > 5
does not satisfy x < − 2

Hence x > 3 is correct.

ANSWER E
5.

6 ≤ |x| ≤ 8
1 ≤ |y| ≤2
3 ≤ |z| ≤ 4

If x, y, and z satisfy the inequalities shown, what is the least possible value of |x+y+z|?

A. 0
B. 1
C. 2
D. 3
E. 4

SOLUTION:

The least possible value of a modulus can be 0. So, think along those lines.
Inequality 1:
6 ≤ |x| ≤ 8, can be simplified and written as 6 ≤ x ≤ 8 or -8 ≤ x ≤ -6

Inequality 2:
1 ≤ |y| ≤ 2, can be simplified and written as 1 ≤ y ≤ 2 or -2 ≤ y ≤ -1

Inequality 3:
3 ≤ |z| ≤ 4, can be simplified and written as 3 ≤ z ≤ 4 or -4 ≤ z ≤ -3

The least value available in answer choices is 0, which is attainable.

It could be the case that x = -6, y = 2 and z = 4,

So |x + y + z| = |(-6) + 2 + 4| = |0| = 0

ANSWER A
6. On the number line, which of the following specifies the set of all numbers x such that
|x - 3| + |x - 4| < 2?

A. 1 < x < 6
B. 1.5 < x < 5.5
C. 2 < x < 5
D. 2.5 < x < 4.5
E. 3 < x < 4­

SOLUTION:
Critical points : x = 3 and 4
Detailed analysis to get the values that satisfy the region:
Case 1: x < 3
Case 2: 3 ≤ x < 4
Case 3: x ≥ 4

Case 1: x < 3
−(x − 3) − (x − 4) < 2
−2x < −5
x > 2.5
=> 3 > x > 2.5

Case 2: 3 < x < 4

(x − 3) − (x − 4) < 2
1<2
Hence, the entire case satisfies the inequality.
=> 3 < x < 4

Case 3: x ≥ 4
x−3+x−4>2
2x < 9
x < 4.5
=> 4.5 > x ≥ 4
So, 2.5 < x < 4.5

ANSWER D
7. If |x|+|y|> 4|x| and x and y are non-zero integers, then which of the following cannot be the
value of y ?

A. -4
B. 3
C. 5
D. 6
E. 10

SOLUTION :
|x|+|y| > 4|x|

|y| > 4|x|−|x|

|y| > 3|x|

Since x is a non-zero integer, |x| can be 1, 2, 3..

For|y| > 3|x|

[consider the minimum possible value of |x| i.e 1 which will cover all values of y]

|y| > 3
I.e. y > 3 or y < -3

y will be greater than 3 or less than -3, but not equal to 3

ANSWER B
8. What is the product of the roots of x2 – 7|x|− 30 = 0 ?

A. -100
B. -9
C. 0
D. 9
E. 100

SOLUTION :
Rewriting x2 as |x|2
x2 – 7|x|− 30 = 0

|x|2 – 7|x| − 30 = 0

|x|2 – 10|x| + 3|x| − 30 = 0

(|x| – 10)(|x| + 3) = 0

i.e |x| = 10 or -3

But |x| cannot be negative, |x| ≠ -3

Now, |x| = 10

x = +10 or -10

Product of the roots = (10)(-10) = -100

ANSWER A
9. How many positive integers less than 10 satisfy ||x−3|−4|> 3?

A. 0
B. 1
C. 2
D. 3
E. 4

SOLUTION :

Consider |x – 3| = z
|z – 4| > 3
Expanding inequality mod function as
(z − 4) < −3 when z -4 is negative or (z – 4) > 3 when z -4 is positive or 0.
=> z < 1 or z > 7

Therefore, |x -3| < 1 and |x – 3| > 7.

Further, |x – 3| < 1
−1 < (x − 3) < 1
2<x<4
The positive integral value satisfying range is x = 3

For, |x – 3| > 7
(x – 3) > 7 or (x – 3) < −7
x > 10 or x < −4
No solution is possible in this case.

So, only one positive integer (x = 3) which is less than 10 satisfies the given equation.

ANSWER B
10. If |A| < |B|, which of the following numbers is always negative?

𝐴 𝐵
A. 𝐵
− 𝐴
(𝐴 − 𝐵)
B. 𝐴+𝐵
C. AB − BA
𝐴𝐵
D. 𝐴−𝐵
𝐵− 𝐴
E. 𝐵

SOLUTION :
|A| < |B| can be interpreted in the following ways:
Both positive, both negative, and either one of them as negative.
Consider: |1|<|2|: 1 and 2, -1 and 2, 1 and -2, -1 and -2

Evaluate options:
𝐴 𝐵
A. 𝐵
− 𝐴
; Say A = -1 , B = 2
(−1) 2
2
- (−1)
is positive, Eliminate

(𝐴 − 𝐵)
B. 𝐴+𝐵
, Negative for all cases.

C. AB − BA
Say A = -1 , B = 2 ; (-1)2 - 2(-1) is positive, Eliminate

𝐴𝐵
D. 𝐴−𝐵
Say A = -1 , B = 2
−2
(−1) − 2
is positive, Eliminate

𝐵− 𝐴
E. 𝐵
Say A = 1 , B = 2
2 −1
2
is positive, Eliminate

(𝐴 − 𝐵)
Hence 𝐴+𝐵
is negative for all possible cases.

ANSWER B
 2
11. if |x| < 𝑥 then which of the following must be true ?

A. x > 0
B. x < 0
C. x > 1
D. -1 < x < 1
2
E. 𝑥 > 1

SOLUTION :
2 2
x < 𝑥 or - x < 𝑥
2 2
𝑥 - x > 0 or 𝑥 + x > 0
x( x -1) > 0 or x(x + 1) > 0
x < 0(Reject as x is positive here) or x > 1 or -1 > x or x > 0(Reject as x is negative here)
=> x < -1 OR x > 1 Same as Choice E.

ANSWER E