A table is one of the simplest tools for summarizing data. Data is arranged in rows and columns. The aspirant needs to put some time to make some calculations and get an overall idea of the data.
The hint to solve is to read everything about the data, i.e. heading, foot notes, units, etc and not just give cursory glance to the actual numbers.
A line graph or any other graph is a pictorial representation and hence able to give you overall picture on the trend quickly.
Usually we develop the habit of reading tables and graphs by reading Business/Finance News regularly. While reading that we need to pay attention to units, and format in which the figures are given.
Also, whenever reading any type of graph try to think why the graph is depicted in a particular format. Without doing calculation one should try to gather as much information as possible such as the increase or decrease in prices or pollution or inflation etc. Emphasis should be given on understanding overall scenario and not on memorizing the numbers.
Example Question:
Assume the above Data represents the amount of time you spend each day over the previous week days studying different subjects for GS.
Q1. What is total time spent on reading History during the entire week?
Ans: Sum of 2 + 1 + 0 + 1 + 1 + 0 = 5 hours.
Q2. What percentage of your time was spent on reading environment during the entire week?
Ans: Total Time spent on Environment = 5 hours
Total Time Spent on All Subjects = 30 hours
Percentage of time spent on Environment = 5/30 = 1/6 or 16.7%
Q3. What was the maximum time duration that you spent on any individual subject on any given day?
Ans: 3 hours on Environment.
As you can see with the above, the type of question asked for Data Representation type questions is easy and very scoring. The table itself can have different data or complex units but once you understand the table it becomes very easy to answer.
For each question correctly answered you get 2 marks. In effect one table question can give you 2 to 6 marks. I would suggest not to leave this type of questions in exam,
0 Comments