Data Sufficiency
Master Data Sufficiency. Test your conceptual clarity. Don't solve providing the answer, check if the data is sufficient to find a UNIQUE answer.
Model 1: The Golden Rules
- Rule 1 (Unique Value): Data is sufficient ONLY if it gives a single, unique value. "x > 0" is INSUFFICIENT. "x = 5" is SUFFICIENT. "x = 5 or -5" is INSUFFICIENT.
- Rule 2 (Don't Calculate): You don't need the final answer (e.g., 45 km/h). You just need to know if it CAN be found.
- Rule 3 (Isolation): First check Statement I alone. Then check Statement II alone. ONLY combine if both fail individually.
Example:
Q: Is x positive? I. x┬▓ = 25. II. x┬│ = -125.
Solution: I -> x=┬▒5 (Not sufficient). II -> x=-5 (Sufficient to say NO, it's not positive). Answer: Only II.
Model 2: Arithmetic Traps
- Variable Cancellation: Sometimes variables cancel out, giving an answer even with missing data. (e.g., finding Ratio when values are missing).
- Circular Reasoning: If Statement II is just a derived form of Statement I, combining them gives NO new info.
Example:
Q: Find Speed. I. Dist=100. II. Time=2hrs.
Solution: Together necessary. Answer: Both.
Model 3: Three Statement Standard
- Approach: Check single statements first. Then pairs (I+II, II+III, I+III). Finally all three.
- Options Strategy: Eliminate options as you check. If I alone works, eliminate "Both I and II".
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