Cheatsheet: Data Analysis & Interpretation | General Aptitude for GATE - Mechanical Engineering PDF Download

Theory

This is one of those subjects where students can dramatically improve their scores by putting in some practice. But don’t just solve the entire set by force, put in some smart work. Learn the tricks of calculation given below and put them to use every time you solve a set. The crux of doing well in Data Interpretation is accurately solving in less time. Most of the students are able to understand what is asked and how to do it. The only difference between a high scorer and a low scorer is accuracy and speed. As most of the questions are interrelated (as in the data derived from one is used by another) these errors can get compounded during the exam. Make sure you spend enough time accurately solving those questions where the data derived will be used by the other questions. Use the techniques given below to improve your time.

Formula

• Average = Sum/ (number of readings)
• Percentage of A wrt B = A*100/B

Tips

In case numbers are not given adjoining bar graphs, column charts, pie charts etc, write them down on paper before proceeding. It reduces the chances of error by incorrectly reading a graph in the midst of solving a problem.

Solved Example