This is done when a test-taker looks at both statements and says \u201cYes, if I have both pieces of information, then I can figure out the answer, so together the statements are sufficient.\u201d However, you must remember that you\u2019re also asked if either statement ALONE is enough to answer the question. Understanding the differences among all five answer choices in itself can be a boost to your quantitative score. As you look at each individual statement, ask yourself, \u201cis this enough?\u201d Once you can definitively answer yes or no, you are then closer to an answer to the data sufficiency problem.<\/p>\n
Mistake #2: Over-calculating<\/strong><\/p>\n Since you may not need to calculate an actual value for a data sufficiency question, you should avoid going into the calculation step unless absolutely necessary. For example, if dealing with a statement like:<\/p>\n Instead of trying to plow through with the calculations as you might have to do in a problem-solving question, recognize that you have one variable in this equation (x), and that this is solvable. So if this shows up in a data sufficiency question, the answer to the question \u201cis this enough?\u201d is yes, and again you are closer to solving your data sufficiency question.<\/p>\n Though data sufficiency questions look very abstract, there\u2019s a hidden beauty involved in solving them. Practice these while taking on the mindset of \u201cis this enough?\u201d to maximize your time-management ability for the GMAT.<\/p>\n