Bunuel
If \(\frac{x^2 – 2x – 2}{2} = 3\), what is one possible value of x?
(A) -4
(B) -3
(C) -2
(D) 2
(E) 3
STRATEGY: As with all GMAT Problem Solving questions, we should immediately ask ourselves, Can I use the answer choices to my advantage?
In this case, we can easily test the answer choices.
Now we should give ourselves about 20 seconds to identify a faster approach.
In this case, we can also solve the equation.
Since the equation doesn't look too hard to solve, that's the approach I'll take Given: \(\frac{x^2 – 2x – 2}{2} = 3\)
Multiply both sides of the equation by \(2\) to get: \(x^2 – 2x – 2 = 6\)
Subtract \(6\) from both sides of the equation: \(x^2 – 2x – 8 = 0\)
Factor: \((x-4)(x+2) = 0\)
So, \(x = 4\) or \(x = -2\)
Answer: C
ALTERNATE APPROACH: Test values
(A) -4
The equation becomes: \(\frac{(-4)^2 – 2(-4) – 2}{2} = 3\)
Simplify the numerator: \(\frac{16 + 8 – 2}{2} = 3\)
Simplify the numerator: \(\frac{22}{2} = 3\)
Doesn't work. Eliminate A.
.
.
.
(C) -2
The equation becomes: \(\frac{(-2)^2 – 2(-2) – 2}{2} = 3\)
Simplify the numerator: \(\frac{4 + 4 – 2}{2} = 3\)
Simplify the numerator: \(\frac{6}{2} = 3\)
Works!!
Answer: C