A rectangle has area 24 above. What is the area of the triangle EFG?

Forget conventional ways of solving math questions. In DS, Variable approach is the easiest and quickest way to find the answer without actually solving the problem. Remember equal number of variables and independent equations ensures a solution.


A rectangle has area 24 above. What is the area of the triangle EFG?
1) AD=4
2) EF=CD/3


When you modify the original condition and the question, the area of the rectangle is given and the area of the triangle EFG is always the same wherever G is on the line AB. Also, con 1) in number and con 2) is ratio. In this case, it is most likely that ratio is an answer. So, in 2), EF is 1/3 of CD, which means the triangle EFG is 1/6 of the rectangle ABCD. It is unique and sufficient. Therefore, the answer is B.


 Once we modify the original condition and the question according to the variable approach method 1, we can solve approximately 30% of DS questions.

Hello from the GMAT Club BumpBot!

Thanks to another GMAT Club member, I have just discovered this valuable topic, yet it had no discussion for over a year. I am now bumping it up - doing my job. I think you may find it valuable (esp those replies with Kudos).

Want to see all other topics I dig out? Follow me (click follow button on profile). You will receive a summary of all topics I bump in your profile area as well as via email.