Direct Proportions in Numeracy Tests
It is important to become familiar with proportion problems to perform well in numerical reasoning test. This section is concerned with direct proportions which are in essence two equivalent fractions. For example if there are twice as many boys as girls then the ratio of boys and girls is 2:1 however, if there are 10 boys and 5 girls then 10 is to 2 as 5 is to 1 and this is proportion. Note that knowing how to work with proportions is not only essential for numeracy tests but also essential for dealing with everyday challenges. For example, if you run a car which burns nine litters per mile and you need to know number of litters you will need in order to drive 80 miles you can use your knowledge of proportions to work this out. If you are looking for a quick guide then read the below section which explores the basics of solving proportion problems in scope of numerical reasoning tests.
How to solve questions with direct proportions
In order to solve proportion problems related to direct relationships between two amounts you need know how to set up a simple equation and solve for one unknown. A good example to demonstrate this is illustrated below. If you have some knowledge of proportions then allow yourself no more than 60 seconds to complete the question. You may start now.
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How many more litters does fully loaded truck D burn in a day compared to partly loaded?
Did you find the question difficult? Did you work out the difference between the numbers of litters vehicle use when fully and partly loaded? If not don’t panic you will learn the way to solve these questions with practice. Note that to find out how many litters of fuel fully and party loaded truck burns in a day you need to set up a simple equation. Follow the below steps.
Firstly, create formula with one unknown to determine how many litters does truck with part load consumes in a day. You can formulate your equation in the following way: 16 litters/100 miles = X litters/150 miles. Now, cross multiply and divide 150x16 = 100X. To solve for X = 150x16/100, X = 24. So, partly loaded truck uses 24 letters of fuel a day. Now follow the same method and perform the calculation for full load and you will find that truck D would consume 30 litters. So, fully loaded truck compared to partly loaded truck burns 6 litters more per day. If these calculations seem to be a bit puzzling you may want to review tutorial on ratios and proportions that shows step by step explanation to get you started.
In numerical reasoning tests you may encounter wide range of problems related to proportions. It is important to know that the above example presents with proportions with direct relationship where one quantity proportionally increases as the other. If you want to see further example of proportions where one quantity proportionally increases as other decrease then follow the link. Additionally, you can review guide on ratios and proportions in aptitude tests to be well prepared for your upcoming online assessments.