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Lesson: Data Sufficiency Basic - 12t03

First Eliminate the choices then Evaluate The Statements In Combination

[Page 12 of 22]

Time : 30 seconds or less

Evaluate The Statements In Combination

Think of the two as one long statement

Use Step 3 of the CAT Method for Data Sufficiency only when each statement is insufficient alone. You’ll only need to apply Step 3 about 40% of the time.

Remember, if you need to combine the statements you’ve already eliminated Choices (A), (B), and (D). The correct answer can only be Choice (C) or (E).

You’re asked to make a comparison between Bill’s annual tax payment and Jill’s annual tax payment. What do you need to know to answer the question?

Let's start with Step 1. Think of two sets of information that would allow you to answer the question and type them into the Text Boxes below, then click Continue.

Does Bill pay more in taxes per year than Jill?

(1) Bill pays $3,500 in taxes each year.

(2) Jill pays $3,000 in taxes each year.

  • Set 1: Information about Bill’s tax payment AND Jill’s tax payment
  • A comparison of their tax payments

The statements are about the same length, so start with either statement.

Determine whether each statement alone is sufficient or insufficient and then click Continue.

Does Bill pay more in taxes per year than Jill?

(1) Bill pays $3,500 in taxes each year.

(2) Jill pays $3,000 in taxes each year.

Statement (1):
  Sufficient Insufficient    
Statement (2):
  Sufficient Insufficient    

Countinue

Since Statement (1) contains no information about Bill, you cannot compare their tax payments. Eliminate Choices (B) and (D).

And, since Statement (2) contains no information about Jill, again you cannot compare their tax payments. Now you can also eliminate Choice (A).

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